Over the next few weeks, we'll evaluate the best and worst top 10 picks in a 10-year span from 1999-2008. We capped this at 2008 because it's unfair to judge first- or second-year players. Today, the pick 10 bust.
Pick: 10 overall
The player: Matt Leinart | QB | Arizona Cardinals (2006)
Among the 10th overall picks from 1999-2008, there are plenty of choices as the biggest bust. Green Bay defensive end Jamal Reynolds had three sacks over three years and 18 games before quitting football. Wide receiver Mike Williams at himself out of Detroit. Amobi Okoye isn't quite physical enough for the NFL.
But recent busts from the 10 spot begin and end with Matt Leinart. After a prestigious college career at Southern California, Leinart was expected to be Arizona's franchise quarterback.
NFL Draft successes and busts 10-year evaluation: 10th overall bust
Instead, he seemed to be more interested in partying and scoring random hookups. While those are great pastimes for most 20-somethings, it may not be for someone expected to be the face of an NFL franchise.
After an average rookie year, Leinart never got much of a chance in year two after breaking his collarbone and landing on injured reserve in October. From there, Leinart couldn’t supplant
as the starting quarterback in 2008 or 2009.
The 2010 season really proved Leinart as a bust. Unable to beat out
for the starting quarterback job, Leinart was released. His replacements were rookies
and
.
Leinart is now backing up
in Houston.
At USC, Leinart was surrounded by an incredible amount of talent. As the Cardinals found out, it masked his lack of physical ability and work ethic. Although injuries and the play of Warner attributed to Leinart’s bust, the other traits are just as to blame.
Runner-up: Jamal Reynolds | DE | Green Bay Packers (2001)
Coming tomorrow: The biggest bust among ninth picks from 1999-2008.
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