Most athletes who have exceptional ability often find themselves enshrined in the Hall of Fame. Yet, not all achieve that honor. Injuries often play a significant role in this.
This article highlights ten athletes whose careers were hindered by injuries.
NFL
QB Andrew Luck
Andrew Luck surprise retired ahead of his potential seventh season in the NFL. He was the first overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and was pivotal in the Indianapolis Colts’ transition after Peyton Manning. Luck was a four-time Pro Bowler but multiple injuries led him to retire just weeks before the 2019 season, leaving fans pondering what might have been.
Andrew Luck
Andrew Luck retired prior to what would have been his seventh active NFL season.
RB Clinton Portis
Portis had a stellar start with the Denver Broncos, rushing for over 1,500 yards in his rookie season. Unfortunately, shoulder and groin injuries kept him from reaching Hall of Fame status throughout his career.
Clinton Portis
Clinton Portis #26 rushed for 1,200-plus yards in six seasons.
QB Tony Romo
Romo’s tenure with the Dallas Cowboys was marked by efficiency, yet injuries plagued his late career, leaving him without a ring despite numerous playoff appearances.
Tony Romo
Tony Romo #9 is first in Cowboys history in both passing yards and passing touchdowns.
DE Osi Umenyiora
A ferocious pass-rusher, injuries affected Umenyiora’s trajectory, preventing him from achieving the potential seen in the shadow of legends like Michael Strahan.
Osi Umenyiora
Osi Umenyiora #72 recovers a fumble for a touchdown during the Giants’ game.
MLB
1B Ryan Howard
Howard was a powerhouse in the MLB, leading in home runs and earning accolades. However, injuries derailed his career following a painful Achilles injury in 2011.
Ryan Howard
Ryan Howard led MLB with 58 home runs in 2006, his first full season at the big-league level.
OF Andruw Jones
Regarded as one of the best defensive players, Jones’ injuries in later years limited his career achievements, despite being one of the game’s elite during his peak.
Andruw Jones
Andruw Jones won 10 consecutive Gold Gloves.
LHP Cliff Lee
Lee had a dominating stretch in MLB but injuries led to an abrupt end to an otherwise Hall of Fame-caliber career.
Cliff Lee
Cliff Lee, the 2008 American League Cy Young Award winner.
RHP Stephen Strasburg
Strasburg was a top draft choice but various injuries stunted his impactful career following a lucrative contract.
Stephen Strasburg
Stephen Strasburg was the 2019 World Series MVP.
NBA
G Brandon Roy
Roy was a star player who suffered career-altering knee injuries, ultimately retiring early despite his dominance in gameplay.
Brandon Roy
Brandon Roy earned two All-NBA honors.
F/C Amar’e Stoudemire
Stoudemire displayed immense talent early in his career but succumbed to injuries that held back his potential stardom.
Amar’e Stoudemire
Amar’e Stoudemire was a five-time All-NBA honoree.
