Ryan Leaf, Quarterback
Ryan Leaf was such an athletically gifted quarterback that people legitimately debated whether he should be taken before Peyton Manning in the 1998 NFL Draft. Leaf stood 6’5, weighed almost 240lbs, was a tremendous athlete for a player his size, and had a rocket launcher for an arm. He was a First-Team All American in college, and finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting in 1997. But even in his pre-draft interviews, the signs were there that he enjoyed the fame and fortune of being a “star” quarterback, more than he enjoyed winning football games. He once stated that if he were to be the first quarterback taken in that draft, he would spend a week partying in Las Vegas with his friends (which he ended up doing anyway, even though he wasn’t selected first). He thought he was too good for the mandatory NFL rookie meetings, skipping them and earning a fine for it. When he performed poorly during his rookie year, he lashed out at teammates and even the media (as evidenced by his famous “Knock it off!” outburst at San Diego Union Tribune reporter Jay Posner). Leaf refused to accept criticism, even though he spent a lot of time on the golf course, while other quarterbacks on the Chargers would gather to watch film. The Chargers ended up releasing Leaf just three seasons after drafting him. In 21 career starts, Leaf threw 14 touchdowns and 36 interceptions. Since retiring from the NFL, Leaf has struggle to stay on the right side of the law. He has been arrested at least five times, and has served a few stints in prison.