Rarely does the idea of Rookie Cards cross my mind when choosing a set to build. I don't start building a set thinking, "Oh boy, I need this impossibly expensive RC." If it takes time to accumulate the set, I have plenty to find one that's reasonable.

I've tackled some with seemingly expensive RC's, the 1958 Jim Brown comes to mind. Found a clean, fair condition set filler for $53 in a .99 cent auction just 6 months ago. Payton is a great example of looking for an opportunity. There are a LOT of Payton rookies; some even encased in plastic by perfectly legitimate TPG's that PSA registry fans do not favor (SGC or BVG). With that said, I always buy the card. My only advise is to be patient.

I cannot think of a major issue, panel only rookie in football either.