Its only fitting that the resolution of the NFL lockout and the go live of one of the most anticipated products of the year happen on the same day. The trading and signing whirlwind may happen tomorrow, but as of now, my focus is on watching eBay like a hawk for the first of the big hits from 2011 Topps to be posted.

So far, almost one of every premiere rookie has hit, and as far as those cards go, the photos look great. Last year, there was a significant problem with a portion of the rookies, focusing more on awkwardly posed non-action shots than action shots taken during the course of the rookie premiere weekend. This year, from the initial postings on eBay, it has been a great mix of action shots, with no weird ones – yet.

In addtition, the variations on the rookie cards from the premiere are back again, and like last year, should be extremely valuable for non-autographed rookie cards. At most likely one per case, these could easily be 40-50 bucks a card for the top guys at first.

Outside of the premiere rookies, it’s a volatile mix of junk from the combine and some other workouts, a practice I will never stand for, especially with much of the airbrushing that has been successfully accomplished in sets like Leaf Metal. Hopefully, by the time Chrome comes along, the combine photos will be replaced with game photos, but Im not holding my breath.

As for the cards not included in the actual base set, I really like the design of the rookie jersey cards, even though they are not game used. I do not buy non-autographed rookie jersey cards, but if I did, I would be all over these. They just look cool. The retro Bowman cards are interesting to say the least, and not really my cup of tea.

Overall, once the bigger hits start showing up, there is going to be a frenzy over the cards. Anytime a product like this hits, it will be huge.

Here is what is up so far:

Christian Ponder RC Premiere Jersey Card

Christian Ponder Base RC Card

Jake Locker Base RC Card

Cam Newton Base RC Variation SP