3. Tony Mandarich – 2nd overall to Packers in 1989:
Now we’re getting up into the truly rarified air of all-time busts. ‘The Incredible Bulk’ made a big name for himself with his steroid-enhanced Sports Illustrated cover. Green Bay was enamored with Mandarich’s bulk enough to make him the second pick in the 1989 draft.
Just three year into his disastrous NFL career, Mandarich proved that all the PEDs he took couldn’t make him stand up to the rigors of an NFL grind. He fell victim to substance abuse issues that ultimately saw him attend a rehabilitation facility.
After getting sober and admitting his steroid use, Mandarich actually made it back to the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts for three years. He switched his position to guard and actually started all 16 games in the 1997 season. However, the fact he was drafted ahead of great Hall of Famers like Barry Sanders, Derrick Thomas, and Deion Sanders makes him one of the biggest busts in NFL history.
