The NFL Draft is full of high expectations, but not every early pick shines right away. Some players get slapped with the dreaded “bust” label before they even have a real chance to prove themselves.
However, the following 19 players silenced their critics and carved out impressive careers despite initial doubts. Let’s count down from 19 to 1!
19. Alex Smith (QB, 2005 – San Francisco 49ers)
Alex Smith was taken first overall in the 2005 NFL Draft, but early struggles and injuries made many write him off. However, he became a solid starter, led multiple teams to the playoffs, and was an inspiration after his miraculous return from a devastating leg injury.
18. DeVante Parker (WR, 2015 – Miami Dolphins)
Early in his career, Parker struggled with injuries and inconsistency, leading to disappointment in Miami. But in 2019, he finally broke out with a 1,200-yard season, proving he could be a difference-maker.
17. Jared Goff (QB, 2016 – Los Angeles Rams)
After a disastrous rookie season, some labeled Goff a bust. But with the right coaching, he turned into a Pro Bowler, led the Rams to a Super Bowl, and later revitalized his career with the Detroit Lions.
16. Mark Ingram (RB, 2011 – New Orleans Saints)
Ingram started slow, splitting carries and struggling with injuries. But he later became a Pro Bowl running back and an integral part of the Saints’ offense for years.
15. Leonard Floyd (OLB, 2016 – Chicago Bears)
As a top-10 pick, Floyd didn’t live up to the hype in Chicago. However, after moving to the Rams, he became a dominant pass rusher and played a key role in their Super Bowl LVI victory.
14. Brandon Graham (DE, 2010 – Philadelphia Eagles)
Drafted in the first round, Graham didn’t make an immediate impact and was called a bust. Fast forward, and he became a franchise icon, delivering a legendary strip-sack in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LII win.
13. Kyle Fuller (CB, 2014 – Chicago Bears)
Fuller’s career started slowly, and injuries raised questions about his durability. But he fought back, became an All-Pro cornerback, and locked down receivers for years.
12. Jason Pierre-Paul (DE, 2010 – New York Giants)
Pierre-Paul was a raw prospect when drafted, and some thought he’d never develop. Instead, he became a dominant pass rusher, won two Super Bowls, and even returned from a fireworks accident to remain productive.
11. Derek Carr (QB, 2014 – Oakland Raiders)
Carr faced plenty of skepticism, with critics questioning his ability to lead a team. He proved them wrong by becoming one of the most consistent quarterbacks of his era and setting multiple franchise records.
10. Frank Gore (RB, 2005 – San Francisco 49ers)
Gore was doubted due to knee injuries, but he ended up being one of the most durable and productive running backs in NFL history, finishing third all-time in rushing yards.
9. Matthew Stafford (QB, 2009 – Detroit Lions)
Many labeled Stafford as a stat-padder who couldn’t win big games. Then he left Detroit, won a Super Bowl with the Rams, and silenced his critics once and for all.
8. Ryan Tannehill (QB, 2012 – Miami Dolphins)
Tannehill was written off as a failed experiment in Miami. After joining the Titans, he reinvented himself as a Pro Bowler and led Tennessee to an AFC Championship Game.
7. Eric Ebron (TE, 2014 – Detroit Lions)
A high pick with underwhelming early production, Ebron finally broke out with the Colts, earning a Pro Bowl nod and becoming a reliable red-zone target.
6. Amari Cooper (WR, 2015 – Oakland Raiders)
Despite being productive early, Cooper was traded from the Raiders, leading some to question his future. He responded by becoming a star receiver for the Cowboys and Browns.
5. Trent Williams (OT, 2010 – Washington Commanders)
Injuries and team drama led some to question Williams’ longevity. However, he became one of the best left tackles in NFL history and a crucial leader for the 49ers.
4. Josh Allen (QB, 2018 – Buffalo Bills)
Early on, Allen’s accuracy issues made many doubt his potential. Fast forward, and he’s now one of the best quarterbacks in the league, leading Buffalo to multiple deep playoff runs.
3. Tyreek Hill (WR, 2016 – Kansas City Chiefs)
Drafted in the later rounds due to off-field concerns, Hill went on to become one of the most explosive playmakers the NFL has ever seen.
Read More: 10 Young NFL Stars Destined for Hall of Fame Glory
2. Geno Smith (QB, 2013 – New York Jets)
After years as a backup, Geno was seemingly forgotten. But in 2022, he led the Seahawks to the playoffs, won Comeback Player of the Year, and proved that patience pays off.
Read More: Ranking the Biggest College Football Stars Who Flopped in the NFL
1. Drew Brees (QB, 2001 – San Diego Chargers)
Brees was considered too small and was let go by the Chargers. The Saints took a chance on him, and he became a Hall of Famer, Super Bowl champion, and one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
Read More: Ranking the 30 Most Disliked Players in NFL History
