3 biggest draft busts in Pittsburgh Steelers history

1. LB Huey Richardson

He would prove to be the final first-round selection of the Chuck Noll Era with the Black and Gold. The Steelers used the 15th overall pick in the 1991 NFL Draft on University of defensive University of Florida defensive end Huey Richardson. He figured to add spark to the pass rush as an outside linebacker in the club’s 3-4 defense. However, the former Gator was anything but an impact player.

He would play in only five games for the franchise. Even more disappointing was the fact that he not only failed to record a sack, he was not credited with a tackle or an assist. Noll retired after the 1991 season and the Bill Cowher Era began in ‘92.

The team would go on to finish 11-5 and win the AFC Central during the future Pro Football Hall of Famer’s debut campaign. Richardson was not part of the team. He did not make it through the summer.

The one-time Florida standout spent 1992 with the Jets (7 games) and Washington (4 games). He failed to make any impact there as well and his NFL career came to an end after two years.

It’s safe to say that this was a mere blip (and a big one) for a franchise that has found its share of pass-rushers throughout its history.