A Respectful Look at Tough Careers
Everyone in America knows that quarterback is one of the most difficult positions in the NFL, but that's why there's such a strong spotlight on it. If you're lucky enough to make a big team and play in this position, every little thing you do is going to be scrutinized. And sadly for these 5 players, it wasn't in the best way.
1. Ryan Leaf
Ryan Leaf entered the NFL with enormous expectations after being selected second overall in the 1998 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he couldn't live up to them, with his professional career riddled with turnovers, poor production, and highly publicized struggles with leadership.
2. JaMarcus Russell
JaMarcus Russell was chosen first overall in the 2007 NFL Draft and arrived with impressive physical tools. You'd expect a superstar in the making, but sadly, his NFL career was marked by accuracy issues, preparation concerns, and limited on-field success.
3. Akili Smith
Akili Smith was selected third overall in the 1999 NFL Draft after a strong college season at Oregon. But compared to his school performance, in the NFL, he struggled to develop consistency and finished with very limited passing success.
4. Heath Shuler
Heath Shuler entered the league as a highly regarded first-round pick for Washington in 1994. That high regard quickly turned to disappointment though, as his time as a starter was marked by interceptions, low completion rates, and an inability to secure long-term success.
from United States Congress Biographical Directory on Wikimedia
5. Nathan Peterman
Nathan Peterman became widely known for a rough start to his NFL career, especially a five-interception performance in his first start. Although he has remained in the league longer than many expected, his regular-season appearances have often been difficult for fans to watch.
