The 10 best players since 2000 to miss rookie seasons with injuries showcase resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
J.J. McCarthy’s rookie campaign in the NFL came to an abrupt halt before it even started. Following a recent surgery to repair a torn meniscus, he will be sidelined for the entire 2024 season. The Minnesota Vikings selected him No. 10 overall in the NFL Draft, anticipating a fierce competition for the starting quarterback position.
[Related: J.J. McCarthy and other NFL injuries that could impact 2024 season]
This unfortunate turn of events places McCarthy in a rare category among first-round rookie quarterbacks. According to CBS Sports, he is set to become the first quarterback drafted in the first round during the common draft era (1967-present) to miss his entire rookie season due to injury.
However, McCarthy is not alone in facing such challenges. The pressing question is how he will respond to this setback. Below are notable examples from the 21st century of NFL and NBA players who successfully bounced back after missing their entire rookie seasons due to injuries.
10. Travis Etienne Jr., RB, Jacksonville Jaguars (2021)
Travis Etienne Jr. is a compelling case, as he was poised to make an impact in his rookie year. The former Clemson standout was selected as the No. 25 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, reuniting him with his college quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Unfortunately, a Lisfranc tear in his foot during a preseason game forced him to miss the entire season. Upon his return, he reclaimed his position as the Jaguars’ starting running back and has consistently surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in his subsequent seasons.
9. Jaylon Smith, LB, Dallas Cowboys (2016)
Jaylon Smith’s situation was unique, as his injury occurred before he was drafted. A star linebacker at Notre Dame, he suffered a severe knee injury during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl, which significantly impacted his draft stock. The Dallas Cowboys took a chance on his potential, selecting him No. 34 overall in the second round. After a year of recovery, Smith emerged as a key player for the Cowboys.
8. Chad Greenway, LB, Minnesota Vikings (2006)
7. Michael Porter Jr., F, Denver Nuggets (2018-19)
Michael Porter Jr. faced a challenging start to his career as well. After playing only three games in his freshman season at Missouri due to back issues, he fell to No. 14 in the 2018 NBA Draft. The Nuggets decided to rule him out for his rookie season due to another back surgery. However, he later established himself as a vital contributor to the team, averaging 19.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in his first full season.
6. Ben Simmons, PG, Philadelphia 76ers (2016)
Ben Simmons’ rookie season was derailed by a foot fracture, initially misdiagnosed as a sprained ankle. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft missed the entire season but rebounded to win Rookie of the Year honors the following year, becoming a pivotal player for the Philadelphia 76ers.
5. Chet Holmgren, C, Oklahoma City Thunder (2022-23)
4. Willis McGahee, RB, Buffalo Bills (2003)
Willis McGahee’s career trajectory changed dramatically due to a devastating injury in his final college game. Once viewed as a top-five NFL Draft prospect, he fell to the Buffalo Bills, who selected him No. 23 overall. McGahee overcame his injury setbacks to become a highly productive running back in the league.
3. Blake Griffin, PF, LA Clippers (2009-10)
Blake Griffin, the No. 1 pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, missed his entire rookie season due to a broken kneecap. Upon his return, he made an immediate impact, averaging 22.5 points and 12.1 rebounds per game and winning Rookie of the Year honors.
2. Joel Embiid, C, Philadelphia 76ers (2014-15, 2015-16)
Joel Embiid was a top prospect in the 2014 NBA Draft but missed his rookie season due to a foot injury. After two years away from the court, he returned to become one of the league’s premier players, earning multiple accolades, including the 2022-23 MVP award.
1. Travis Kelce, TE, Kansas City Chiefs (2013)
Travis Kelce’s rookie season was marred by a knee injury sustained in the preseason. After a slow start, he underwent surgery and missed the entire season. He has since become one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, contributing significantly to the Kansas City Chiefs’ success, including three Super Bowl appearances.
With nine Pro Bowl selections and a track record of over 1,000 receiving yards in multiple seasons, Kelce’s journey is a testament to perseverance in the face of injury.
