1948 Bowman #26 Bob Waterfield PSA NM-MT 8
1948 Bowman #26 Bob Waterfield PSA 8 – A Rookie Legend in Fighting Form
A true icon of early professional football, Bob Waterfield was the prototype for the modern quarterback—strong-armed, poised under pressure, and remarkably versatile. The first rookie to win NFL MVP, Waterfield led the Cleveland Rams to a championship in 1945 and helped usher the team into its next era in Los Angeles. A Pro Football Hall of Famer, he wasn’t just a field general—he was also an elite punter and kicker, embodying the all-around toughness of the post-war NFL.
This PSA 8 example of 1948 Bowman #26 is a standout from one of the most historically important football sets ever released—the first mainstream football set of the post-war era. The card features a bold black-and-white portrait, sharp corners, and clean surface gloss, placing it firmly in the upper tier of known copies. With the 1948 Bowman set known for its print and centering challenges, a high-grade card like this is a true vintage rarity.
For enthusiasts of Rookie NFL Hall of Famers or those building a premium set from football’s cardboard beginnings, this card represents both history and quality—a cornerstone piece from one of the game's original stars.