Cincinnati Bengals’ Top 10 NFL Draft Busts

As the Cincinnati Bengals gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, Ohio fans reflect on past selections that didn’t pan out. Therefore, examining the team’s top 10 draft busts offers insight into the risks of high picks. Despite recent successes like Joe Burrow, the Bengals’ history includes notable disappointments. Here’s a look at the biggest missteps, highlighting why they fell short:

1. Akili Smith (QB, 1999, 3rd Overall)
Firstly, Akili Smith tops the list. Drafted for his athleticism, he passed for just 2,212 yards with five touchdowns in four seasons. Consequently, his contract disputes and lack of diligence made him a franchise “what-if.”

2. Ki-Jana Carter (RB, 1995, 1st Overall)
Next, Ki-Jana Carter’s career was derailed by a knee injury in his first preseason game. Although a Penn State star, he rushed for only 1,144 yards, never regaining his explosiveness.

3. David Klingler (QB, 1992, 6th Overall)
Moreover, David Klingler’s college success at Houston didn’t translate. Starting 24 games, he threw 16 touchdowns against 22 interceptions, struggling on poor teams.

4. John Ross (WR, 2017, 9th Overall)
Additionally, John Ross, picked for his 4.22-second 40-yard dash, recorded just 10 touchdowns and under 1,000 yards in four seasons, plagued by injuries.

5. Peter Warrick (WR, 2000, 4th Overall)
Furthermore, Peter Warrick, a Florida State standout, peaked in 2003 but never matched his draft hype, finishing with 18 touchdowns.

6. David Pollack (LB, 2005, 17th Overall)
Also, David Pollack’s spinal injury after a lackluster rookie year ended his career early, despite his college accolades.

7. Jack Thompson (QB, 1979, 3rd Overall)
Similarly, Jack Thompson, the “Throwin’ Samoan,” started just five games, overshadowed by Ken Anderson’s resurgence.

8. David Verser (WR, 1981, 10th Overall)
Likewise, David Verser, drafted as a returner, failed to score as a returner or receiver, lasting four years.

9. Ricky Hunley (LB, 1984, 7th Overall)
Moreover, Ricky Hunley refused to sign, forcing a trade. Although the Bengals benefited from draft picks, his absence stung.

10. Billy Brooks (WR, 1976, 11th Overall)
Finally, Billy Brooks caught 93 passes in four seasons, underwhelming for a first-rounder, with a career AV of 18.

Moving Forward in 2025
In conclusion, these busts remind Bengals fans of the draft’s unpredictability. Thus, as Cincinnati approaches the 2025 draft with six picks, careful scouting is crucial to avoid repeating history at Paycor Stadium. The Bengals six picks this year think the best practice would be to pick even 3 offense and 3 defensive players would be the best course of action to have a balanced 2025 successful draft.