Ryan Leaf. Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Leaf fires back at Bill Polian for fabricating story

By Colum Dell | Last updated 4/19/23

The 1998 NFL Draft is renowned for the selections of Peyton Manning, one of the greatest quarterbacks ever, and Ryan Leaf, an all-time bust, as the top two picks.

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the event, former Colts executive Bill Polian discussed Leaf's predraft interview that "didn't go well at all" with The 33rd Team's Vic Carucci. One issue, however, is that his comments are entirely false.

According to Polian, the former Washington State quarterback said he couldn't report to Indianapolis immediately if selected as the No. 1 pick due to an upcoming Las Vegas vacation.

On Wednesday's episode of "Good Morning Football," Leaf refuted the 80-year-old's assertion, revealing that he didn't speak with Polian because he was undergoing an MRI that conflicted with their interview.

"I never met with Bill. I've never met Bill," said Leaf. "...There never was an interview, never happened. [Former Colts HC] Jim Mora was so angry the next day because we missed the meeting. It was a big story. It just has become this narrative, and I've never spoken up for myself."

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

Leaf's message to Polian on "Good Morning Football" echoed the same points he made in his expletive-laden remarks on Tuesday.

"Well this is just a huge f-----g lie. Why Bill Polian continues to spew this bull---t narrative is beyond me," Leaf tweeted. "Maybe he thinks it makes the story more compelling. Seems pretty compelling already, greatest QB ever, biggest bust ever. Doesn't need ur s--t editorializing Bill!"

Leaf, of course, was selected by the then-San Diego Chargers second overall and started in only 18 games with the team, winning just four. His poor play, injuries and personal issues led to his release. He later appeared in four games with the Dallas Cowboys during the 2001 season.

In 2002, Leaf signed with the Seattle Seahawks and participated in their offseason minicamp but retired before the start of training camp. In 25 career games, he completed 48.4% of his passes for 3,666 yards, 14 touchdowns and 36 interceptions.

Despite his struggles on and off the field, Leaf has been candid about his hardships. It's encouraging to see him beginning to defend himself against disparaging comments and be comfortable carrying not just the "bust" label but also the person he is.

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