The Biggest NFL Draft Busts That Still Haunt Teams Today
Every NFL fan dreams of their team landing the next superstar in the draft, the kind of player who can change the franchise’s fortunes overnight. But not every pick pans out, and when things go wrong, the fallout can be legendary. From first-round flops to overhyped talents who never delivered, some draft busts continue to haunt teams—and their fans—for decades. These are the picks that left franchises reeling, coaches scratching their heads, and fans wondering what could have been. Here’s a look at the most unforgettable missteps in NFL history and why their impact is still felt today.
60. Cleveland Browns QB Tim Couch
Couch, a Heisman Trophy finalist in 1998, set an SEC single-season record for passing yardage that remained untouched for over two decades until Joe Burrow broke it in 2019. Carrying a franchise as demanding as the Browns proved a monumental challenge for Couch, resulting in fluctuating performance levels.
Despite an excellent fourth year, a potentially career-defining breakthrough was cruelly halted when he broke his leg right at the end of the regular season, causing him to miss the playoffs. A sterling 400-yard performance by Kelly Holcomb against the Steelers in the playoffs stoked the fires of a quarterback controversy, signaling the beginning of the end for Couch in Cleveland.
59. Maurice Clarett, RB, Ohio State
Maurice Clarett was selected by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2005 draft despite having missed two years of football due to legal issues and NCAA violations. Hopes were high that Clarett’s immense talent would shine in the NFL.
However, conditioning issues and off-field problems derailed his career before it even started. Clarett was released before the season began, never played an NFL snap, and became one of the league’s most infamous draft busts.
58. Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin
The Atlanta Falcons selected Peter Konz in the second round of the 2012 draft, expecting him to anchor their offensive line for years. However, Konz struggled with injuries and poor play, leading to a short and disappointing NFL career.
Despite his college accolades, Konz failed to transition to the pro level effectively and was out of the league by 2015. His inability to meet expectations makes him one of the more notable offensive line busts.
57. Adam Archuleta, S, Arizona State
Drafted 20th overall by the St. Louis Rams in 2001, Adam Archuleta entered the league with high expectations as a hard-hitting safety. While he had a few solid seasons early in his career, Archuleta’s performance began to decline rapidly.
A big-money contract with the Washington Redskins in 2006 only added to the disappointment as his production failed to justify the investment. His steep decline and lack of impact make him a clear bust for his draft position.
56. David Terrell, WR, Michigan
Selected eighth overall by the Chicago Bears in 2001, David Terrell was expected to become a franchise wide receiver. Despite showing flashes of potential, Terrell struggled with consistency and injuries throughout his career.
Over four seasons with the Bears, he failed to record a single 1,000-yard season and totaled just nine touchdowns. His inability to live up to expectations as a top-10 pick made him one of Chicago’s most disappointing draft selections.