30 biggest draft busts in NFL history

23. Jason Smith, OT, St. Louis Rams

Over the past few drafts, teams have valued offensive linemen more than any other position. And while this strategy has helped a few teams turn into contenders, it backfired for the St. Louis Rams with Smith.

After starting his career as a tight end with Baylor, Smith successfully converted to the offensive line as a redshirt sophomore prior to 2006. Smith started all 12 games as a right tackle that season before moving to left tackle the next year. In 2008, Smith was recognized as one of the best offensive lineman in the nation and received an All-American nod.

Scouts were impressed with Smith’s athleticism and he performed very well at the combine. St. Louis selected Smith second overall in the 2009 draft, expecting him to become an elite left tackle with a little more experience.

Instead, Smith was moved to right tackle and started only five games his rookie season due to a serious concussion. Smith got a full season of starts the next year, but really struggled at left tackle, particularly in run blocking.

After another six starts with the Rams, Smith was traded to the New York Jets, and did not start another game before being released. If there’s any consolation for the Rams, it’s that Smith was the first of many major busts in the first round of the 2009 draft.

Next: 22. Troy Williamson, WR, Minnesota Vikings