Manning or Leaf?
On April 18, 1998, Peyton Manning was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts with the first pick of the NFL Draft. The 2nd pick was Ryan Leaf who was selected by the San Diego Chargers.
At the time both of these prospects seemed to be can't miss and there was a real controversy about which was the better player.
Fast forward 20 years and Peyton Manning is a 2 time Superbowl Champion, Hall of Famer and Nationwide Insurance peddlar.
In comparison, Ryan Leaf was out of the league after 4 lackluster years.
His post football resume included a burglary arrest, drug abuse, and domestic violence charges.
He was seen as one of the greatest draft busts in history.
A lot of people use this comparison as an example of potential vs greatness. What made Peyton great and Ryan a bust?
But I bet a lot of people don't ask the question, where is Ryan Leaf now?
Contrary to popular belief Ryan Leaf did not stop living. In fact, he's now a successful TV & radio personality working at ESPN and he founded a foundation to help people with mental health issues.
Sure, he's not Peyton Manning, but he's not done living, trying and succeeding.
How many of you see yourselves as a "Bust"? Why?
Do you think that there is nothing in your life that you can't change? Do feel trapped by your decisions?
If Ryan Leaf can go from a mugshot to a headshot, what is stopping you from trying to do a little bit better?
What are the reasons you give for not trying? These are the excuses preventing you from doing better, being better and living better.
It's time to be like Ryan Leaf, dust yourself off and get after it.
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