As a new sports agent, you’re sure to want to create an impressive client list…..and fast. But, choosing clients wisely is important, since one who is difficult, gets into trouble or is simply off his game can make like pretty difficult. Just take a moment to imagine having to renegotiate, or get a new, contract for these guys.
1. Terrell Owens – Managed by super agent Drew Rosenhaus, Owens created the biggest controversy of Rosenhaus’ career during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. And, that’s saying a lot, since Rosenhaus never runs from controversy. But, Owens, though a talent on the field, has had trouble with every team he’s played for. In fact, he’s been released by every team he’s played for except his current Buffalo Bills, and he’s been with them for less than a year.
2. Kellen Clemens – He’s played for the New York Jets since 2006. Each time it’s looked like the Jets would need to make him their starting quarterback for the season, they’ve hired someone else. Ouch.
3. Ryan Leaf – This guy was a first round draft pick out of college, but didn’t do well anywhere he played. And, he played everywhere. He played for the Chargers, the Buccaneers, the Cowboys and the Seahawks during his short four year professional career. He was listed first on both ESPN’s 50 Biggest NFL Draft Busts list and on their 25 Biggest Sports Flops between 1979 and 2004. He left pro football and became a quarterback coach for West Texas A&M, but was placed on leave after allegedly asking a student for a pill to relieve his pain. He later entered drug rehab and in 2009 was indicted on burglary and controlled substance charges.
4. Michael Vick – Vick is the NFL’s most famous felon. Vick was the first African American quarterback to be selected first overall in an NFL draft. He played for six seasons for the Atlanta Falcons, leading them to the playoffs twice.
But, in 2007, Vick was federally indicted regarding an illegal dog fighting ring that had operated on his property for five years. He pled guilty and served 23 months in jail. Upon his release, he was told by Falcons owner Arthur Blank that he was not welcome to return to the Falcons. Blank attempted to trade him, but was unsuccessful, so Vick was released by the team. He has since signed with the Philadelphia Eagles.
5. Willie Colon – He’s played for the Steelers since 2006, where his performance has been mediocre and he has a reputation for gaining illegal procedure penalties, ruining big plays for the team. For his entire career with the Steelers, it’s been rumored that he’ll be moved to the position of guard, due to his size (he’s 6’ 3” and weighs 315) and his lackluster performance as right tackle.
So, as you enter the field of sports management and get your sports management degree, watch out for guys like these, who either turn out to be busts as players or whose personal life makes NFL teams embarrassed to have them.
Ellen Ward writes about how to search for sports management degrees.