Branden Albert
Offensive Lineman (Guard / Tackle) · Kansas City Chiefs / Miami Dolphins / Jacksonville Jaguars
Bowman Chrome #Not clearly visible on front, standard set numbering applies
Year & Era
2008 — Modern/Chrome Era
Card Type
Blue Refractor Rookie Card Parallel
Grade
Raw — appears Near Mint to Mint estimated (PSA 8-9 range if properly cleaned of surface dust)
Rarity
Scarce parallel featuring the iconic Bowman Chrome Blue Refractor border, typically serial-numbered to /150 for this era.
Overall Assessment
A highly attractive, limited-parallel rookie card of a respected offensive lineman, ideal for team collectors and set builders looking for clean Chrome material.
Condition Grade
Raw — appears Near Mint to Mint estimated (PSA 8-9 range if properly cleaned of surface dust)
Centering Assessment
Front appears relatively well-centered with minor variance left to right; back would need to be inspected for precise sub-grades.
Surface Condition
Refractor surface shows light dust and possible hairline imperfections on the toploader, but the chromium card stock appears clean with standard rainbow reflection.
Corner Condition
Corners appear sharp and well-defined inside the protective sleeve, typical of a well-preserved Bowman Chrome rookie card.
Edge Condition
Edges are clean and sharp with no apparent chipping along the chromium borders.
Print Quality
High-grade chrome print quality with crisp foil stamping of the Bowman Chrome logo and clean team name placement.
Estimated Value
USD $5 - $20 depending on exact numbering and buyer demand for offensive linemen
Comparison to Known Examples
Comparable to standard mid-to-late 2000s Bowman Chrome parallels with decent centering and clean corners.
Authentication Tips
Check for the authentic Bowman Chrome refractor sheen under direct light and ensure the card stock thickness matches standard 2008 Bowman Chrome releases.
Grading Recommendation
SGC or PSA; however, grading fees may outweigh the raw card value given Branden Albert's position as an offensive lineman.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; card is housed in a standard top loader.
Provenance Notes
Sourced from 2008 Bowman Chrome football wax packs or hobby boxes.
Historical Context
Branden Albert was drafted 15th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs and went on to a solid career, earning Pro Bowl honors.
Market Trends
Offensive linemen generally experience niche demand, keeping prices stable and affordable compared to skill-position players.
Investment Potential
Hold or budget-friendly PC item; long-term appreciation is limited primarily to hardcore Chiefs or offensive line collectors.
Similar Cards
2008 Bowman Chrome Rookie Cards of contemporaneous draft picks, other 2008 parallels such as Refractor (/999) or X-Fractor.
Display & Preservation
Store in a penny sleeve inside a rigid top loader or magnetic holder, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Interesting Facts
Bowman Chrome Blue Refractors from 2008 are heavily chased by set builders and team collectors completing rainbow parallels.