Main content

Ryan Leaf: From the NFL draft to addiction and prison

Ryan Leaf was picked second overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 1998 NFL draft. The quarterback was selected behind two-time Superbowl champion Peyton Manning.

He struggled in the NFL and left the league after four seasons. Leaf failed to come to terms with his exit from the NFL. He became addicted to painkillers and was imprisoned for burglary. He now is an ambassador for a mental health charity. 'I didn't know a drug dealer, so I went through friends' medicine cabinets'.

(Image: Ryan Leaf playing for San Diego, Credit: Getty Images)

Release date:

Duration:

2 minutes