Fansided

30 biggest draft busts in NFL history

By Nathaniel Reeves

SAN DIEGO - DECEMBER 24: Ryan Leaf
SAN DIEGO - DECEMBER 24: Ryan Leaf /
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13 Sep 1992: Defensive lineman Steve Emtman of the Indianapolis Colts looks on during a game against the Houston Oilers at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Oilers won the game, 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Gary Mook /Allsport
13 Sep 1992: Defensive lineman Steve Emtman of the Indianapolis Colts looks on during a game against the Houston Oilers at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Oilers won the game, 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Gary Mook /Allsport /

18. Steve Emtman, DE, Indianapolis Colts

Injuries have limited a number of top NFL draft picks over the years. Unfortunately for Emtman, they defined his entire professional career.

The 1991 National Champion Washington Huskies allowed just 9.6 points per game in one of the most dominant defensive efforts in college football history. Emtman led the way. He racked up 20.5 tackles, was named an All-American, and finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting. He was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2006.

The Colts liked that dominant upside, and selected Emtman first overall in the 1992 NFL draft. However, they never got to see Emtman at his best.

After a promising nine-game stint to begin his NFL career, Emtman’s first three seasons were all ended early by injuries, including ruptured ligaments in both knees. Overall, Emtman appeared in 50 games over his six-year career with limited production, starting just 19.

With eight sacks and 121 tackles in the NFL, Emtman fell far short of what a No. 1 overall pick is expected to produce. The Colts have to wonder what could have been if Emtman hadn’t injured his knee after those promising nine games.

Next: 17. David Klingler, QB, Cincinnati Bengals

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