Shedeur Sanders reminded the world that the National Football League (NFL) Draft is full of surprises. Some of the league’s greatest stars came from the unlikeliest positions.
While many first-round picks go on to become superstars, others fail to live up to expectations. At the same time, late-round selections can become icons. Here are the five best draft steals in NFL history.
Tom Brady – 2000, Round 6, Pick 199, New England Patriots
Tom Brady is the most iconic draft steal in National Football League (NFL) history. The New England Patriots selected him as the 199th pick in the sixth round. At the time, he was an overlooked quarterback from the University of Michigan.
Brady would go on to defy all odds. He led the Patriots to six Super Bowl titles and later added another with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His calmness, accuracy, and leadership helped redefine the quarterback role.
Despite his low draft position, Brady’s stats and accolades speak for themselves. He holds numerous NFL records and has earned the Super Bowl MVP five times. His draft story has become a symbol of perseverance and belief.
Bart Starr – 1956, Round 17, Pick 200, Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers picked Bart Starr in the 17th round. Few thought he would make it in the NFL. At that time, the draft had many more rounds than it does today.
However, Starr became a legend in Green Bay. He led the Packers to five NFL championships, including victories in the first two Super Bowls. The voters named him MVP of both Super Bowl I and II.
Starr’s quiet leadership and clutch performances set the standard for future quarterbacks. Despite being drafted 200th overall, his legacy is among the greatest in league history. His success is a reminder that heart and intelligence can outweigh raw athleticism.
Ken Houston – 1967, Round 9, Pick 214, Houston Oilers
Ken Houston is one of the greatest defensive backs to ever play the game. He was selected in the ninth round by the Houston Oilers. Most expected little from a small-school player from Prairie View A&M.
Nevertheless, Houston quickly established himself in the NFL. He was selected for 12 consecutive Pro Bowls and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. His vision, tackling, and instincts made him a feared defender.
After being traded to Washington, Houston continued to dominate. His 49 career interceptions speak volumes about his awareness and positioning. To this day, he remains one of the most underrated stars in NFL history.
Joe Montana – 1979, Round 3, Pick 82, San Francisco 49ers
Joe Montana was taken in the third round by the San Francisco 49ers. At pick 82, few predicted he would become one of the most clutch quarterbacks ever. He had a decent college career at Notre Dame but lacked standout physical traits.
Montana, however, had unmatched poise under pressure. He won four Super Bowl titles and was named Super Bowl MVP three times. His connection with Jerry Rice and mastery of the West Coast offence made the 49ers dominant.
He orchestrated numerous game-winning drives, including the iconic “The Catch” vs. Dallas in 1982. Montana’s success helped define an era. Even now, his name is often mentioned in GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) conversations.
Shedeur Sanders – 2025, Round 5, Pick 144, Cleveland Browns
Shedeur Sanders shocked the NFL world in 2025. Despite a strong college career at Colorado under his father, Deion Sanders, he fell to the fifth round. The Cleveland Browns took a chance on him at pick 144.
From the moment he stepped on the field, Shedeur proved doubters wrong. His ability to read defences, extend plays, and lead under pressure made him an instant hit. As a rookie, he outperformed many higher-drafted quarterbacks.
His presence also gave the Browns new hope at a historically unstable position. Early signs suggest he could become a franchise player. Given his draft position, Sanders may become one of the greatest quarterback steals in modern times.
Conclusion
The NFL Draft can change a franchise’s destiny. These five players prove that talent can be found at any stage. Scouting is not an exact science. Sometimes, the best players are hidden in plain sight.
For fans and those involved in online sports betting, these stories offer valuable lessons. Always expect the unexpected in the NFL. Draft steals can turn into legends, reshaping the league and its history.
