Chris CrockettA Falling Leaf
May 22nd 2009 16:14
Ryan Leaf or Peyton Manning? Peyton Manning or Ryan Leaf? Remember back in 1998 when that was the big question that the Indianapolis Colts were facing as draft day was approaching? Well, it's safe to say that they made the right decision in drafting Manning but I remember it wasn't such a clear cut decision for Indy. Leaf went second to the San Diego Chargers. It was very similar to the "who do we take" decision that the Patriots had to make when choosing between two standout college quarterbacks, Drew Bledsoe and Rick Mirer (the next Joe Montana out of Notre Dame). An aside on that: good move on that one by the Pats because I don't care what anyone says, Drew Bledsoe put football back on the map in New England and that gets forgotten all too quickly in New England.
Well, needless to say, Leaf has been out of football for some time now and just this past Wednesday he was indicted by the grand jury in Texas on drug and burglary charges. He is suspected of breaking into an apartment in Canyon, Texas and stealing a painkiller called Hydrocodone back on October 30th. Apparently Leaf is currently undergoing drug rehabilitation for his addictions.
It just gets you to thinking about how tough it must be to be considered in the 1% of what you do in the world and then for whatever reason, you don't make it. What a fine line it is at the point you make it as a pro in any sport. Everyone is so talented. A lot of times what it comes down to is the mental toughness and drive to be the best that will determine if you become a standout or just another pro athlete who passed through the ranks and will be forgotten about. I mean this kid is only 33 years old now and he had the world at his feet when he was just 22 years old. He was known as an overly stubborn guy who had a lot of talent but just couldn't put it all together and was out of fooball for the most part back in 2000. When you think about it, it's too bad. You were supposed to be everything, a great QB in the NFL and then before you know it you are at home sitting on your couch wondering what you are going to do and coping with the fact that you didn't make it--and you're only 25 years old. Leaf went through many struggles along the way after his football career ended. He struggled with picking up the pieces and moving on. He took a job as a quarterback coach at West Texas A&M a few years back but it didn't last. It just goes to show you that money, agents, "advisors", fame, will change everyone to a degree but in the end it's the head on your shoulders that will keep you grounded through your successes in life and help you cope with your failures. It just seems Leaf couldn't deal with either one and it's a shame it's come to this now.
Chuck Hanf
Two Cents From Beantown @ Sportramble.com
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