What Happened To Every #2 Draft Pick Since 2000?

In the world of the NFL, the number one overall draft pick captures the spotlight—drawing the lion’s share of media attention, fan expectations, and organizational pressure. But just one slot behind, the number two pick often flies under the radar, quietly shaping the league’s history with both legendary performances and unforgettable disappointments. Over the past quarter-century, the second overall pick has produced Hall of Famers, franchise cornerstones, tragic stories, and high-profile busts. This article tracks every number two NFL draft pick since 2000, exploring who lived up to the hype, who fell short, and where their journeys have taken them.

Early 2000s: Explosive Entrances and Unfulfilled Potential

Lavar Arrington (2000)

Lavar Arrington burst onto the NFL scene as a generational linebacker prospect out of Penn State. Famous for the “Lavar Leap”—literally hurdling offensive lines to tackle ball carriers—Arrington was an instant impact player for Washington. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods in his first four seasons, establishing himself as one of football’s most dynamic defenders. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his career; by 2006, after a brief stint with the Giants, Arrington retired with 417 tackles and 23.5 sacks. Today, he remains close to the game as a co-host of Fox Sports Radio’s “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe.”

Leonard Davis (2001)

Standing 6’6” and weighing 355 pounds, Leonard Davis entered the league as a mammoth offensive lineman. His early years with the Cardinals were solid but unspectacular, failing to justify his lofty draft status. A move to the Dallas Cowboys in 2007 transformed his career; shifted to right guard, Davis earned three straight Pro Bowls and became one of the NFL’s best linemen. He capped his 11-year career with a Super Bowl appearance for San Francisco in 2012.

Julius Peppers (2002)

If NFL drafts were redone, Julius Peppers would often be the consensus first pick. A freak athlete, Peppers dominated from day one, recording 12 sacks in his rookie year and winning Defensive Rookie of the Year. Over 17 seasons, he amassed nine Pro Bowls, three First-Team All-Pro selections, and an incredible 11 interceptions as a defensive lineman. Peppers’ longevity was remarkable—he notched 11 sacks at age 37 and five more at 38. In 2024, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame on the first ballot, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest pass rushers in NFL history.

Charles Rogers (2003)

Charles Rogers arrived with sky-high expectations after setting Michigan State’s touchdown record in just two years. His NFL career began promisingly, but two broken collarbones in consecutive seasons led to a downward spiral of injuries and substance abuse. After just 15 games, the Lions released him in 2006. Rogers tragically passed away in 2019 at age 38, making his story one of the most heartbreaking in draft history.

Robert Gallery (2004)

Winner of the Outland Trophy, Robert Gallery was considered the top interior lineman in college football. Drafted by the Raiders during a period of franchise instability, Gallery’s career was hampered by injuries and constant coaching changes. He retired in 2012 and now serves as CEO of Athletes for Care, a nonprofit focused on athlete mental health.

Mid-2000s: Dynamic Playmakers and Franchise Building Blocks

Ronnie Brown (2005)

Ronnie Brown was one of the most electrifying running backs of his era, sharing carries with Ricky Williams in Miami. He led the league in scrimmage yards in 2007 before a knee injury cut his season short. Brown bounced back with a Pro Bowl campaign in 2008 and finished his 10-year career with over 7,300 yards and 40 touchdowns.

Reggie Bush (2006)

Few players have entered the NFL with more hype than Reggie Bush. After a legendary Heisman-winning campaign at USC, Bush joined the Saints and became a versatile weapon as a runner, receiver, and return specialist. He helped New Orleans win Super Bowl XLIV and later posted three seasons of 1,000+ scrimmage yards with other teams. Despite his electrifying play, Bush never quite lived up to his college hype. His Heisman Trophy was revoked in 2010 but reinstated in 2024.

Calvin Johnson (2007)

Nicknamed “Megatron,” Calvin Johnson was a physical marvel who dominated defenses for nine seasons. He set the single-season receiving record with 1,964 yards in 2012 and retired with 11,786 yards and 84 touchdowns. Johnson shocked the league by retiring at 30, citing the physical toll of the game. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2021.

Chris Long (2008)

Chris Long, a standout at Virginia, was a model of consistent production for the Rams. He posted a career-high 13 sacks in 2011 and won back-to-back Super Bowls with the Patriots and Eagles. Long finished with 70 sacks and now hosts the popular Greenlight podcast.

Jason Smith (2009)

The Rams struggled with several high picks, including Jason Smith, a tackle from Baylor. Projected as a franchise cornerstone, Smith’s career was derailed by injuries and inconsistency. He played just 45 games over four seasons and now coaches at Abilene Christian.

2010s: Defensive Dominance and Quarterback Quandaries

Ndamukong Suh (2010)

Ndamukong Suh was a force of nature at defensive tackle, earning five Pro Bowls, three First-Team All-Pro honors, and a Super Bowl ring with the Buccaneers. Suh finished his career with 71.5 sacks and 214 quarterback hits, and now hosts the show “No Free Lunch.”

Von Miller (2011)

Von Miller justified his draft spot by winning Defensive Rookie of the Year and quickly becoming a premier pass rusher. His crowning achievement was earning Super Bowl 50 MVP honors. Miller won a second Super Bowl with the Rams and continues to produce at a high level, recently signing with the Commanders.

Robert Griffin III (2012)

RG3’s rookie season was electric—he threw for 3,200 yards, rushed for 815, and led Washington to the playoffs. But a devastating knee injury in the postseason changed everything. Griffin’s mobility was compromised, and he never regained his early form. After stints with Cleveland and Baltimore, RG3 transitioned to broadcasting and podcasting.

Luke Joeckel (2013)

Luke Joeckel was a highly touted tackle out of Texas A&M but struggled with injuries and position changes throughout his career. He played just 50 games in five seasons before retiring and returning to college for a business degree.

Greg Robinson (2014)

Greg Robinson’s athleticism was undeniable, but his NFL career was marred by penalties, conditioning issues, and off-field troubles. After six seasons, Robinson was released, and subsequent legal issues overshadowed his football legacy.

Marcus Mariota (2015)

Marcus Mariota showed promise early, leading the Titans to the playoffs and delivering a memorable self-caught touchdown pass. However, injuries and inconsistency limited his starting opportunities. Mariota has since played for multiple teams and currently backs up in Washington.

Carson Wentz (2016)

Carson Wentz was an MVP candidate in 2017 before a torn ACL ended his season. The Eagles won the Super Bowl without him, and Wentz’s career trajectory was never the same. Injuries and inconsistency led to his release, and he now serves as a backup in Minnesota.

Mitch Trubisky (2017)

Mitch Trubisky was the first quarterback taken in his draft, ahead of Patrick Mahomes. He showed flashes, earning a Pro Bowl nod and leading the Bears to a division title, but his development stalled. Trubisky is now a backup, while Bears fans hope Caleb Williams can bring brighter days.

Recent Years: Generational Talents and the Modern NFL

Saquon Barkley (2018)

Saquon Barkley dazzled as a rookie, leading the NFL in scrimmage yards and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year. Injuries slowed him, but after six seasons with the Giants, Barkley signed with the Eagles and led the league in rushing in 2024, helping Philadelphia win Super Bowl 59.

Nick Bosa (2019)

Nick Bosa made an immediate impact with the 49ers, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in 2022. He signed a record-breaking contract extension but suffered a season-ending ACL tear in 2025.

Chase Young (2020)

Chase Young won Defensive Rookie of the Year but struggled with injuries and inconsistency. After stints with Washington and San Francisco, Young signed with the Saints and appears to be regaining form as a top pass rusher.

Zach Wilson (2021)

Zach Wilson’s college numbers at BYU were impressive, but his NFL career has been plagued by turnovers and poor decision-making. After three disappointing years with the Jets, Wilson now serves as a backup for the Dolphins.

Aidan Hutchinson (2022)

Aidan Hutchinson, a unanimous All-American, made an immediate impact with the Lions. He set a rookie record with three sacks in a game and has developed into one of the league’s elite young defensive ends, earning Pro Bowl honors.

CJ Stroud (2023)

CJ Stroud was a two-time Heisman finalist at Ohio State and delivered a stellar rookie season for the Texans, leading them to a division title and playoff win. Despite a concussion setback, Stroud has established himself as a promising young quarterback.

Jayden Daniels (2024)

Jayden Daniels led the Commanders to 12 wins and an NFC Championship game appearance as a rookie, showcasing both passing and rushing ability. Injuries have hampered his sophomore season, but Daniels remains a modern dual-threat quarterback with a bright future.

Travis Hunter (2025)

Travis Hunter, a historic two-way player out of Colorado, was drafted by the Jaguars to contribute as both receiver and cornerback. After a slow start, Hunter began to flash his potential before a knee injury ended his rookie season. His versatility and athleticism make him one of the most intriguing prospects in recent memory.

Conclusion

The number two overall pick in the NFL Draft is a fascinating crossroads of talent, expectation, and uncertainty. From Hall of Famers like Julius Peppers and Calvin Johnson to tragic stories like Charles Rogers and high-profile busts like Zach Wilson, the second pick has shaped the league in unpredictable ways. As we look ahead to future drafts, one thing remains certain: whether they become legends or cautionary tales, the number two pick will always be a pivotal chapter in the NFL’s ongoing story.

Who is your favorite number two pick? Which story stands out the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below—and if you enjoyed this deep dive, be sure to subscribe for more in-depth NFL features.