The NFL Draft is one of the most intriguing times of the year, and that’s in no small part because of the biggest NFL draft busts. Some people even prefer this time of the year in football to the actual on-field football. It always creates drama because teams take risks on college talent that’s unproven in the pros. However, the last decade saw many disappointing NFL draft busts.
The reality is that nobody is even remotely near a sure thing. Some college stars have attitude problems and their temperament doesn’t fit the professional level. Others suffer cruel injuries that rob them of their athletic primes. There are many reasons why the best NFL draft prospects fail. Check out the 30 worst NFL Draft busts of the last decade via Business Insider here.
30. Christian Ponder
Ponder is one of the worst draft busts of the last decade.
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The Vikings brought him to Minnesota in 2011 with the No. 12 pick. But it proved to be a massive mistake because he wasn’t at the level required. Before the draft, the former Florida State quarterback was a divisive figure. That’s because he polarized analysts about his potential as a franchise-starter (via Clutchpoints).
In the end, he proved his critics correct. After a disaster of a
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rookie season, Ponder stabilized somewhat in his sophomore year. Then injuries took their toll and Ponder hit a wall. He threw more interceptions in his final couple of seasons than touchdown passes. Finally, the Vikings cut ties with their top pick. He bounced around the NFL as a backup but never played again.