Top 5 Worst NFL Draft Picks in History

The NFL Draft is an exciting time for football fans, as teams look to improve their rosters by selecting the best young talent available. However, not all draft picks turn out to be winners. Some picks end up being complete busts, failing to live up to the expectations placed upon them. In this article, we'll take a look at the top 5 worst NFL draft picks in history.

1. JaMarcus Russell -

QB, Oakland Raiders (2007) Regarded as one of the biggest draft busts of all-time, Russell was taken first overall by the Raiders in 2007, but he failed to live up to his potential as a franchise quarterback. He only played in 25 games over the course of three seasons, throwing for just 18 touchdowns and 23 interceptions before being released in 2010.

2. Ryan Leaf - QB, San Diego Chargers (1998) Leaf was taken second overall by the Chargers in 1998, but he struggled mightily in the NFL. He only played in 25 games over the course of four seasons, throwing for just 14 touchdowns and 36 interceptions before being released in 2001.

3. Tony Mandarich - OT, Green Bay Packers (1989) Mandarich was taken second overall by the Packers in 1989, but he never lived up to his lofty draft status. He struggled with injuries and was released by the team after just three seasons.

4. Lawrence Phillips - RB, St. Louis Rams (1996) Phillips was taken sixth overall by the Rams in 1996, but he had a troubled career both on and off the field. He had several run-ins with the law and only played in 35 games over the course of three seasons, rushing for just 1,453 yards and 14 touchdowns before being released in 1999.

5. Akili Smith - QB, Cincinnati Bengals (1999) Smith was taken third overall by the Bengals in 1999, but he only played in 22 games over the course of four seasons, throwing for just five touchdowns and 13 interceptions before being released in 2002. In conclusion, while the NFL Draft can bring great excitement and hope to fans of all teams, it can also lead to some major disappointments. The players above never lived up to their draft expectations and will be remembered as some of the biggest draft busts in NFL history.