The NFL is full of talented athletes who captivate fans with their skills on the field. However, not every star is universally beloved.
Whether due to their antics, attitude, or off-the-field behavior, some players have developed reputations that rub fans the wrong way. Here’s a look at 15 NFL stars who have sparked controversy, drawn criticism, or simply become polarizing figures in the league.
Deshaun Watson – The Scandal Magnet
After facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, Watson’s reputation took a major hit. His off-the-field issues have left a lasting stain that many fans can’t overlook, and it’s not like his on-the-field actions have done him any favors either.
Russell Wilson – Mr. “Too Perfect”
Wilson’s positive attitude and clean-cut image should make him likable, but many fans find his ultra-polished persona and constant motivational speeches to be disingenuous. His lackluster performances in recent seasons haven’t helped, either.
Jalen Ramsey – The Trash Talk King
Ramsey is one of the best cornerbacks in the league, but his nonstop trash talk has earned him plenty of enemies. Whether it’s calling out quarterbacks or beefing with other players, he’s always in the middle of something.
Baker Mayfield – The Underdog with a Chip on His Shoulder
Mayfield’s cocky attitude, on-field celebrations, and fiery personality have led to mixed opinions. Some love his confidence, while others think he talks too much for what he’s accomplished.
Patrick Mahomes – Guilt by Association Effect
Mahomes himself is widely respected, but his family—especially his brother Jackson and wife Brittany—has rubbed many fans the wrong way with their social media antics and perceived entitled behavior.
Myles Garrett – The Helmet Incident
Garrett is a phenomenal defensive player, but his violent 2019 helmet-swinging incident against Mason Rudolph left a lasting impression on fans who see him as reckless.
Joe Mixon – The Checkered Past
Mixon’s history includes a well-documented assault case from college, and while he’s tried to move past it, many fans haven’t forgotten.
Harrison Butker – The Controversial Kicker
Butker may just be a kicker, but he’s one of the most talked-about players in the league—and not for his on-field performance. His public comments on social and political issues, including gender roles and religious beliefs, have led to significant backlash, making him one of the most polarizing special teamers in recent memory.
Eli Apple – The Social Media Instigator
Apple has been known to troll opposing fanbases, especially on Twitter. While some love his confidence, others find his trash talk annoying—especially when his performance doesn’t always back it up.
Kyler Murray – The Attitude Problem
Murray’s perceived lack of leadership and body language on the field have made him a target for criticism. Reports of him needing a special “study clause” in his contract didn’t help his reputation.
Stefon Diggs – The Frustrated Star
Diggs is one of the NFL’s best wide receivers, but his constant frustration with teammates and cryptic social media posts have left fans questioning his leadership and loyalty.
Aaron Rodgers – The Enigma
Once a fan favorite, Rodgers has become one of the most divisive figures in the league. From his COVID-19 vaccine controversy to his cryptic and sometimes condescending media appearances, his persona has turned off many fans who once admired him.
JuJu Smith-Schuster – The TikTok King
JuJu’s obsession with social media and dancing on opponents’ logos rubbed many fans (and players) the wrong way. While he’s toned it down in recent years, his reputation lingers.
Related: NFL Stars Who Were Overlooked in High School Football
Dak Prescott – The Overrated Debate
Prescott is a solid quarterback, but his massive contract and inconsistent performances have sparked debates about whether he’s truly elite. Cowboys fans defend him, while others see him as overhyped.
Related: Ranking the 45 Greatest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time
Tyreek Hill – The Speedster with a Troubled Past
Hill is one of the fastest and most electrifying players in the NFL, but his off-the-field history, including domestic violence allegations, has made him a controversial figure.
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