Not every NFL legend starts their journey in the first round. Some of the league’s greatest stars were passed over time and time again before finally being drafted—only to defy expectations and dominate on the field.
This list celebrates the underdogs, the late-round surprises, and the players who turned doubters into believers. Here are the top NFL draft steals of all time, proving that greatness isn’t always picked early.
Aaron Jones – Green Bay Packers (2017)
Chosen in the 5th round (182nd overall) out of UTEP, Aaron Jones has become one of the most productive running backs in the NFL. Known for his versatility as both a runner and receiver, Jones has been a key piece of the Packers’ offense. His ability to consistently find the end zone and rack up big plays makes him one of the league’s most underrated stars.
Hunter Renfrow – Las Vegas Raiders (2019)
Drafted in the 5th round (149th overall) out of Clemson, Hunter Renfrow was initially seen as too small and slow to succeed in the NFL. However, he has become one of the most reliable slot receivers in the league. Renfrow’s precise route-running and knack for finding soft spots in coverage have made him a go-to target for his quarterbacks.
Jason Kelce – Philadelphia Eagles (2011)
Selected in the 6th round (191st overall) from Cincinnati, Jason Kelce wasn’t expected to be much more than a backup lineman. Instead, he developed into one of the best centers in NFL history. Kelce’s athleticism and leadership have been instrumental in anchoring the Eagles’ offensive line, including their Super Bowl LII victory.
Quandre Diggs – Detroit Lions (2015)
A 6th round pick (200th overall) out of Texas, Quandre Diggs entered the league as a cornerback before transitioning to safety. Over time, he has become one of the NFL’s most consistent defensive backs, earning multiple Pro Bowl nods. His instincts and hard-hitting style have made him a standout player on every team he’s played for.
Willie Davis – Cleveland Browns (1956)
Drafted in the 15th round (181st overall), Willie Davis didn’t make an immediate impact but found his stride after being traded to Green Bay. He became a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi’s Packers dynasty during the 1960s. Davis earned five NFL championships and was later enshrined in the Hall of Fame for his dominant play as a defensive end.
Joe Greene – Pittsburgh Steelers (1969)
Drafted 4th overall out of North Texas State, “Mean” Joe Greene was considered a risky pick due to his small-school background. However, he became the heart and soul of Pittsburgh’s Steel Curtain defense during their dynasty years. Greene’s dominance on the defensive line helped lead the Steelers to four Super Bowl titles and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest defensive players ever.
Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens (2018)
The Ravens traded up to grab Lamar Jackson with the 32nd pick after many doubted his ability to play quarterback at the NFL level. Critics suggested he should switch positions, but Jackson silenced them by winning MVP in just his second season. His electrifying playmaking ability has transformed Baltimore’s offense into one of the most dynamic units in football.
Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers (2005)
Despite being projected as a top-10 pick, Aaron Rodgers slid all the way to 24th overall, where Green Bay snagged him as Brett Favre’s eventual successor. The wait fueled Rodgers’ motivation, leading him to become one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history. With multiple MVP awards and a Super Bowl title under his belt, Rodgers turned that draft-day slide into an all-time success story.
Raymond Berry – Baltimore Colts (1954)
Selected in the 20th round (203rd overall), Raymond Berry was initially overlooked due to his lack of speed and athleticism. However, his incredible work ethic and chemistry with Johnny Unitas turned him into one of football’s first great wide receivers. Berry led the league in receptions three times and played a pivotal role in some of the Colts’ biggest victories.
Shannon Sharpe – Denver Broncos (1990)
A 7th round pick (192nd overall), Shannon Sharpe entered the NFL without much fanfare but left as one of its greatest tight ends ever. Known for his athleticism and trash-talking prowess, Sharpe revolutionized how tight ends were used offensively. He won three Super Bowls during his career and earned a spot in Canton as a Hall of Famer.
Terrell Davis – Denver Broncos (1995)
Drafted in the 6th round (196th overall), Terrell Davis wasn’t even guaranteed a roster spot when he joined Denver. However, he quickly became one of the best running backs in NFL history, leading the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl wins and earning Super Bowl MVP honors along the way. Injuries cut his career short, but Davis still made it into the Hall of Fame.
Watch Now: Big plays. Fast takes. Check out TQR Shorts for the latest sports news with Zoe!
Richard Sherman – Seattle Seahawks (2011)
A former wide receiver turned cornerback at Stanford, Richard Sherman was drafted in the 5th round (154th overall) by Seattle and became one of football’s biggest surprises. Sherman anchored Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” defense with his physical play and unmatched confidence on and off the field. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and helped lead Seattle to its first-ever Super Bowl title.
Related: Top 15 Best Fifth-Round NFL Draft Picks of All Time
Joe Montana – San Francisco 49ers (1979)
Selected in the 3rd round (82nd overall), Joe Montana wasn’t viewed as an elite prospect coming out of Notre Dame due to concerns about his size and arm strength. Those doubts quickly disappeared as Montana became one of football’s greatest quarterbacks, winning four Super Bowls with surgical precision under pressure. His clutch performances earned him nicknames like “Joe Cool” and “The Comeback Kid.”
Related: The 15 Best Third-Round NFL Draft Picks of All Time
Tom Brady – New England Patriots (2000)
No list of unexpected draft stars is complete without Tom Brady, who was famously taken in the 6th round (199th overall). Brady entered training camp as an afterthought but worked tirelessly to earn his spot on New England’s roster—and eventually its starting lineup. Over two decades later, Brady has seven Super Bowl rings and is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback ever.