NFL Draft Risks That Paid Off

NFL Draft Risks That Paid Off

Corey Dillon

Pre-Draft: Troubled childhood that included several run-ins with the police. <br><br>Post-Draft: Still labeled as a "malcontent", he rushed for six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to start his career and helped the New England Patriots win Super Bowl XXXIX.

Randy Moss

Pre-Draft: Legal transgressions prevented him from playing at Notre Dame and he was forced out of Florida State after a positive drug test. <br><br>Post-Draft: The controversial five-time Pro Bowler has more than 100 career touchdown catches.

Warren Sapp

Pre-Draft: Allegedly tested positive for marijuana while at Miami. <br><br>Post-Draft: Eight time Pro Bowler has established himself among NFL greats at the position and won the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year award in 1999.

Laveranues Coles

Pre-Draft: Dismissed from Florida State following suspension and scandal for receiving discounted merchandise at a retail store. <br><br>Post-Draft: Coles has eclipsed 1,000 yards receiving three times in his seven-year career and reached the Pro Bowl in 2003.

Luis Castillo

Pre-Draft: Admitted to steroid use before the NFL draft. <br><br>Post-Draft: Named as a second alternate to the 2007 Pro Bowl after recording seven sacks.

Chad Johnson

Pre-Draft: Habit for bouncing around to several colleges led to questions about his character and maturity. <br><br>Post-Draft: Emerged as one of the game's best receivers and has been named to four consecutive Pro Bowls.

Jamal Lewis

Pre-Draft: Implicated in a federal drug sting in 2004, but charges stemmed from involvement prior to 2000 NFL draft. <br><br>Post-Draft: Set NFL single-season rushing record with 2066 yards in 2003.

Darnell Dockett

Pre-Draft: Troubled childhood and a shoplifting arrest at Florida State led to serious questions about his character. <br><br>Post-Draft: Up-and-coming player who the Cardinals gave a hefty contract extension last season.

Jared Allen

Pre-Draft: Several brushes with the law while at Idaho State, including a DUI in 2004. <br><br>Post-Draft: Tallied 27.5 sacks through three seasons, but still has had trouble with alcohol-related incidents off the field.

Terrell Suggs

Pre-Draft: Assault charges close to the NFL Draft led teams to question his character and maturity.<br><br>Post-Draft: The 2003 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year has been named to two Pro Bowls and recorded 40 sacks in his four-year career.