The NFL Draft is all about potential. It feels like a franchise-changing moment when a team lands a player with hype, pedigree, and star power. However, sometimes that dream turns into a nightmare, and what once seemed like a slam-dunk pick ends up on every “What Went Wrong?” list for years.
These 15 NFL draft picks were praised, applauded, and even celebrated when they were made. Yet, with the benefit of hindsight? Things didn’t exactly go according to plan.
15. Justin Blackmon – Jacksonville Jaguars, 2012
Everyone believed the Jaguars were getting a game-changing wide receiver. Instead, the story became a cautionary tale that reminded teams that talent alone isn’t enough.
14. Aaron Curry – Seattle Seahawks, 2009
Curry earned the “safest pick in the draft” label and seemed like a can’t-miss linebacker. He missed badly and left Seattle after just a few seasons.
13. Kevin White – Chicago Bears, 2015
White had the speed, size, and college resume to be elite. Unfortunately, recurring injuries shattered any hopes of success.
12. Josh Rosen – Arizona Cardinals, 2018
Rosen’s confidence and arm talent had scouts buzzing. But just one year later, Arizona sent him packing and replaced him with Kyler Murray.
11. Charles Rogers – Detroit Lions, 2003
The Lions hoped the Michigan State standout would become a homegrown star. However, injuries and off-field issues quickly derailed his career.
10. Matt Leinart – Arizona Cardinals, 2006
After sliding on draft night, Leinart was seen as a steal. In reality, his college style never translated to NFL success.
9. Glenn Dorsey – Kansas City Chiefs, 2008
Dorsey dominated at LSU and was projected to anchor Kansas City’s line. Despite that, he struggled to find his role and never matched expectations.
8. Trent Richardson – Cleveland Browns, 2012
Drafting a running back third overall brings serious expectations. Yet, Richardson faded so quickly that his jersey barely had time to dry.
7. Vernon Gholston – New York Jets, 2008
Scouts were obsessed with his athletic profile and pass-rushing upside. But Gholston never even recorded a single sack in the NFL.
6. Sam Darnold – New York Jets, 2018
Darnold came in with all the tools to be a franchise cornerstone. He joined the long line of disappointments for Jets quarterbacks.
5. Jason Smith – St. Louis Rams, 2009
Drafted second overall, Smith was expected to be a foundational tackle. Instead, he barely secured a starting job before washing out.
4. Johnny Manziel – Cleveland Browns, 2014
“Johnny Football” brought hype, charisma, and endless swagger. Sadly, he never delivered where it mattered most—on the field.
3. Robert Griffin III – Washington, 2012
Griffin electrified the league as a rookie, giving fans hope of a long-term star. However, one devastating knee injury changed everything.
2. JaMarcus Russell – Oakland Raiders, 2007
He had a rocket arm and the swagger to match. Russell never lived up to his draft status and became the gold standard for busts.
Read More: 10 Reasons the Kansas City Chiefs Are the NFL’s Most Hated Team
1. Zach Wilson – New York Jets, 2021
Wilson looked like a future franchise QB with his off-platform throws and arm talent. Today, he’s more famous for sideline memes than touchdown drives.
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