Whatever happened to these 30 forgotten college football superstars?

12. Joey Harrington, quarterback, Oregon

It’s hard to say whether or not Detroit ruined the career of Joey Harrington or not. However, coming out of Oregon, the former Heisman finalist was dubbed the savior of Detroit. Though unfair, quarterbacks drafted as high as Harrington (third overall in 2002) are expected to lead their team to a Super Bowl.

The expectations for Harrington were high, but he was going to one of the more dysfunctional organizations in recent memory. During Harrington’s four seasons in Detroit, the offensive line was terrible, the front office did little to put dynamic talent around him, and he started before he was ready.

After his time in Detroit, Harrington was traded to Miami, signed by Atlanta and New Orleans, and finally out of the league after six seasons. Suffice it to say that Harrington did not save the Lions.

Harrington had similar pressure when he signed with the Oregon Ducks. The son of a former Oregon quarterback, Harrington’s parents, were sent a letter of intent by former Oregon coach Len Cassanova when Harrington was born.

Harrington did not disappoint during his Ducks career. As the starting quarterback, Harrington went 25-3 and undefeated in bowl games, including winning the Fiesta Bowl in 2001 and finishing the season ranked second, the Ducks highest ranking ever to that point.