College success often predicts success in the NFL, but there are no guarantees. Many players who were considered “can’t-miss” prospects fell short of expectations in the pros. Despite their athleticism, they struggled to adapt to the NFL’s speed, despite their success in college. Some players, despite their playmaking ability, failed to live up to the hype in the pros and became some of the most egregious busts in league history.
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Here are some NCAA players who didn’t succeed in NFL

William Green
Green was a two-time first-team All-Big East Player for the Eagles and won the conference’s Offensive Player of the Year award in his senior season.He appeared promising during his rookie season in Cleveland, making the playoffs and gaining 887 yards. However, after a promising start to 2003, he was arrested and suspended. He scored two touchdowns the rest of his career.

Alex Smith
Alex Smith, a renowned collegiate player, is often considered a disappointment due to his high-touted status in the 2005 draft. Despite having a 16-24 record as a starter and more picks than touchdowns, he still has a chance to break the “bust” label. His high-touted status may have contributed to his success in his two years as a starter in Salt Lake City.
Johnny Manziel
Johnny Manziel, born in 2012, was a prolific player in college football, making the first freshman Heisman Trophy winner. He displayed a unique ability to make something out of nothing, making him a standout. In the 2014 draft, Manziel expressed his desire to “wreck the league” in Cleveland, but the Browns traded him up in the first round. Despite his success, Manziel only played two years in the NFL before attempting to play in various other notable football leagues in the XFL.

Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow, a prolific quarterback in college football, was the SEC’s all-time leader in rushing touchdowns and the conference’s leader in passing efficiency. He became the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy and was named an All-American during his final three years with the Gators. Despite his success in college, Tebow was a polarizing draft prospect. He found the perfect landing spot with the Broncos, who selected him in the first round of the 2010 draft. Tebow found some success in his sophomore campaign, but failed to become a reliable starter and completed less than 50% of his passes in his three-year career.
Ron Dayne
Ron Dayne, a 5’10” Wisconsin running back, is the NCAA’s all-time rushing leader with over 7,100 yards. Despite his small size, he outperformed other standout backs, including the 1999 Heisman Trophy winner and the 2000 Giants’ 11th pick. The Giants hoped to form a strong combination with Tiki Barber, but Dayne struggled to stay in shape and was held under four-yards-per-attempt each season. Despite his small stature, Dayne’s achievements continue to inspire the NFL.
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