Getty Image / Allen Berezovsky
25 years ago, the 1998 NFL Draft took place where Peyton Manning went number one overall to the Indianapolis Colts.
Meanwhile, Ryan Leaf was selected second overall by the then-San Diego Chargers.
Long-time football fans are well aware of Leaf’s story, as he’s regarded as one of the biggest busts in NFL history.
Well, the former Colts general manager Bill Polian, recently discussed the pre-draft process for the team back in 1998 and shared an interesting story about Ryan Leaf.
Here is Polian’s story during his guest appearance with The 33rd Team.
Bill Polian on the stark contrast between Peyton Manning's and Ryan Leaf's pre-draft visits with the #Colts and how it affected the decision making
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) April 18, 2023
So, according to Polian, Leaf basically told the Colts he wouldn’t show up to the facility due to a Las Vegas trip.
Shortly after that video was posted, Ryan Leaf visited with Good Morning Football to clear the air. He goes as far as to call out the former Colts general manager for “lying.”
Additionally, Leaf claims he never even met Bill Polian in his life.
Ryan Leaf joins us honestly and earnestly to reflect on the viral story of his draft and the importance of resolve @RyanDLeaf pic.twitter.com/zVA5i5gsuG
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) April 19, 2023
Woof. It’s hard not to side with Leaf here. Frankly, his story sounds a lot more believable.
On top of that, what’s the point of Bill Polian continuously bashing Ryan Leaf? The Colts didn’t draft him and this all transpired roughly 25 years ago.
Either way, shout out to Leaf for standing up for himself. The guy has gone through so much over the years and it’s cool to see him back on his feet.
Maybe one day Ryan Leaf and the Colts can settle their differences. Until then, it appears he and Bill Polian may continue their vendetta.