James Harrison (Late Bloomer)

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It’s hard to believe, but there was a time when no one wanted James Harrison. He had to walk-on at Kent State (a MAC school!), and even after proving himself there, he went undrafted because he was too small to be a defensive lineman. For years, he was bounced around among practice squads, an occasional special teams appearance, and even NFL Europe.

It wasn’t until Mike Tomlin became head coach of the Steelers in 2007, a full five years after Harrison went undrafted that he got an honest shot. With that opportunity, all Harrison did was go to five straight Pro Bowls and win Defensive Player of the Year in 2008. He eventually finished his career with 84.5 sacks.