Ryan Leaf 1st Round NFL Pick on Fall From Top, Addiction, Prison Time & Life Now | The Pivot Podcast
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The former 2nd overall pick, only behind Peyton Manning in the 1998 NFL draft, Ryan Leaf shares his emotional journey and his fall from the top to finding light again after very dark times.
This episode of The Pivot is a story of redemption, addiction, and a conversation about restoring faith with the former first round NFL pick, Ryan Leaf, as he sits with Fred, Channing and Ryan to open up about how the star quarterback found himself in handcuffs a few short years after being at the top of the sports world.
After losing his NFL career and football, the one thing he felt defined him, Ryan tried to lean into fame and eventually turned to pills to disguise the pain. His addiction over time led to desperation and burglarizing homes trying find prescription medications and anything that he could find to feed his fix until his actions left him behind bars in prison.
Considered one of the best collegiate quarterbacks during his time at Washington State, Leaf admits now he wasn't mentally prepared to be under the NFL microscope from growing up in a small town in Montana to becoming a Heisman finalist to instant stardom and wealth of the NFL.
Playing for five years in the league, Ryan admits that his career was over after his third game, despite winning 2 of the 3 because of how he handled them. Blaming everyone else for his short comings and behaviors, his outbursts and arrogance cost him his career, his money and he ended up quitting thinking he was bigger than the sport itself.
This choice led him further down a path of poor decisions and pills to numb the absence of the thing he loved most, football. Ryan reflects back on his depression saying he was consumed by the validation of others and tried to cover up the shame of being considered the NFL’s biggest draft bust.
Breaking into homes for survival became his new routine and knowing he had a problem didn’t lead him to seek help rather he sought
the secrecy of the life he was leading.
Looking back, Leaf explains to guys that he’s grateful for his time in prison because it allowed him to humble himself and learn to take accountability for his actions. Although he believes that rehabilitation is a better solution for nonviolent drug offenders, Leaf shares
that his fellow inmates taught him some hard lessons and made him realize the blame and also how to rebuild that life wasn’t over for him.
Coming out of prison with nothing left except his family to pick up, Ryan worked hard to get back into the game he loved in a different way, finding new purpose in the media aspects of football and helping shape young people’s lives to avoid the path he took.
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I love that statement! Channing ask, "Are you really happy? Are you at peace now?" Ryan Leaf says, " I don't necessarily like the word happy, because life is still life, life is unfair, it's how you deal with it that matters okay. I still mess up all the time, I'm still a flawed human being, umm, but I am at peace. Like there's no chaos in my life, except for the chaos I make myself and that's because I work hard now." Powerful!!!!
I DMd this man on Twitter when I was at a low point not expecting a reply, and he replied to me within about 30 minutes. This is an awesome interview and despite not being a high profile athlete, we can all relate to his story in some way or another. Ryan, maybe things didn’t work out the way you had hoped, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t had a significant impact on others. Keep inspiring people with your story brother. I hope to meet you some day.
That’s real! I hope all is well brotha!
Well said!
I didn’t DM him but I as a Chargers fan I made a negative comment about him and he responded to me in the comments and agreed with what I said. I believe that he has really taken accountability for his actions. Im proud and happy for him.
Reapect
Dude, people in recovery are the best people in the world. Even if they're not good people, the program forces them to be amazing. The satisfaction you get from helping people is like a high.
I’ve watched every episode… and this may be the most impactful episode to me… Channing and Fred offering themselves to help if Ryan were to ever fall off really hit home how important it is to have good people around you looking out… Thank y’all for this episode!!
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Facts
That Beasley Ep had me 🥺 whelling pretty hard. That man just like Ryan has a story that's important for young ppl to hear
Mike Beasley
@@bigsaleem 1.A and 1.A lol
This is one of the most amazing and vulnerable interviews of this shows history. Thank you for giving this man a platform to tell his story! Because of his words of truth and wisdom, many of us have been touched. This made me love the Pivot even more. God bless the pivot. And God bless Ryan leaf! It’s nice to hear a man admit he’s flawed. It’s okay for us to be human. This redemption story will resonate in my heart for a LONG time
Thank you for this. Well said God bless Love
Well said!
People don’t realize the pressure these guys go through. I’m glad Ryan Leaf has turned his life around.
This is a good one but watch the one with Michael Beasley, that one hurts
@@Ray-fr8iy yes indeed that one is awesome.. also jamarcus Russell had one of the best
"It's not your business to know what other people think about you." That was powerful. Amazing podcast, definitely have nothing but respect for Mr. Leaf.
I loved that line/statement too!
DAMN!!
What about Andrew Luck? Considering he left the league due to injuries, I feel an interview would be cool to understand his POV because he was no scrub
damn id really love to hear his story
@@Felinefine45 no scrub? Bro was like top 5 in the league for a min there lol
@@brxndaveli5834 Him being top 5 means he was no scrub bro.
I think im the only person in the world that thinks Luck just retired everyone wants to hear from him and get a story or an answer but i just think he left his body had given up on him and even thou he could have fought he didnt want too anymore
The Colts and Irsay ruin his career. Had they invests in protecting him he might still be playing.
This episode, along with the Michael Beasley one was so powerful. Fred, Ryan & Channing, you three are a gift. Thank you for this.
I wish Michael Beasley would accept their help. That episode was tough to watch. I often wonder how he is doing.
For real that man has so much pain and distrust in him, I hope he find the peace he deserves
@@michaelhaile6371 he’s hooping
@@TheSportsandFilmFellowship I heard he is overseas, but I wonder if he is beginning to trust anyone or still hurting like he said on the podcast.
Yes this podcast is just Different. I can't explain it, but it is so different.
I was an addict for almost 2 years this shit hits different✅ thank you for giving him an opportunity to tell his story
Congratulations to you for overcoming it bro 🖤🤝🏾
JUST WANT TO SAY TO ANYONE WHO IS GOING THROUGH SOMETHING KEEP BELIEVING,& BELIEVE & TRUST IN HIM Keep trusting God , Keep Your Faith , Keep Praying , Keep going to church ,keep listening to worship music, & keep reading the Bible ,& and remember , The Lord is Bigger Than your Problems , Everything going to be ok , just keep praying & talking to him ,💕💕MAY GOD BLESS YALL& EVERYONE IN JESUS NAME AMEN 💕😊
Congrats MAY GOD BLESS YOU & EVERYONE IN JESUS NAME AMEN 💕😊
I'm struggling right now with the same shit
@@anthonyfisher8338 Whatever it is, please go get help and look for a therapist. You are loved and needed. If you feel stuck as if you can't move, give me your city/state and I will google resources and list them for you here.
One of the biggest problems of humanity is that people find it easier to drown others in hate and negativity rather than finding a way to uplift them. Negativity is now a comfortable behavior for most, and it seems as if it is promoted. Especially in a world of likes and views. This podcast is THE BEST PODCAST, and this episode showed the importance of asking for help. Lord knows I struggle with that as well.
ASKED FOR HELP PLEASE. YOU MATTER TO OTHERS. ✌🏼
Respect to Ryan Leaf for holding himself accountable and having the courage to share his story.. Redemption is a great thing to see
I would like to thank all of you for this interview. As men, we’re often taught that it’s not ok to be vulnerable and ask for help. As someone who struggles with depression and anxiety, seeing these conversations are so impactful because it chips away at the stigma that still remains. Ryan Leaf’s story is one I had heard from others but never directly from him and I’m so glad I did. What a powerful and real testimony. And it’s a constant reminder that we are always on life journey. I love this podcast and the difference it’s making for so many people. Thank you for everything you’re doing to have thoughtful and impactful conversations.
100, I have sent it to every male friend I have
As Men, we have to carry IT all on our shoulders and because of our Male pride, which is different than others, it becomes impossible to set IT down.
never heard of Ryan Leaf, but his story needs to be told. there is a wealth of information from being a millionaire NFL player, to broke addict, going to prison. I love his honesty and his accountability.
?
Even if u didn’t heard of him. Everyone know about Ryan was known as the biggest bust of all time.
I loved that you guys gave Ryan Leaf and JaMarcus Russell an opportunity to share their stories. I hear the jokes around draft time and, since I grew up in the 90s, I saw the saga unfold in real time. To actually hear his humanity and internal struggles is inspiring. This thing y’all have is special, and as a fan of sports I’m grateful. Keep it coming!
How can anybody hate on Ryan leaf...dude is legit. His story of ups n downs is therapy, humbling and reality
From this ep, to the Michael Beasley, Jay Williams, JaMarcus Russell & so many more, yall are really saving & impacting so many lives out here
Fred, Channing and Ryan. thank you for having Ryan on the Pivot. This interview is so powerful and carries so much weight. To hear his story and how it went from the highest high and lowest low and his continuous fight to stay clean brings me closer to my brother who had a drug addiction and didn't ask for or get the help needed who lost his life way to soon. Thank you so much.
This might be the most important hour of youtube I have watched this year. Thank you Ryan, Ryan, Channing, and Fred.
I Loved that!!! Ryan asked, "When Ryan Leaf looks into the mirror now, what does he tell himself? He love's Him!!" This was Beautiful!!
I always appreciate a good Ryan Leaf interview. There's a lot to learn from his story. Much respect for sharing 👍
Imagining Ryan leaf bumping Cudi on the way to rob people for pills is weirdly funny to me
Mannnn, I’m on the verge of tears. This is the most honest, pure, episode you guys have ever done. This is powerful!
Don't cry
😅😅😅😅😊😅😅😊😢😊😅😅😅😅
Man, Ryan Leaf is such a reflective dude nowadays! He’s like a MVP-level interview!!
Thank God for unconditional loving parents
💯
RYAN, I'm a recovering heroin addict & I'd like to say 2 things...1. THANK YOU!! Call it a 12th step or payin' it fwd, but you certainly moved me. 2. If someone told me you were my long lost brother, it wouldn't shock me, ha. I'm an athlete, same build, hell we even look the same, but it's the things you said & the way you said 'em. I saw myself w/out que, so thx again. Best wishes for you & your recovery my friend...Oh, & I would've loved to see you face us in SB40 as I'm a die hard Steeler fan. What's up RC?? & Fred, SO HAPPY we don't have to line up across from you anymore, ha. Thx for the msg guys. 😉✌️🖤💛
I'm on perks now and want to quit bc they killing my pockets and body but it's so hard to quit and it's even harder to ask for help smh this interview hit different
Episodes like this is what make The Pivot the most realest podcast in the game!
5yrs sober. Ryan's explanation on his drug habits at the time was SPOT ON why I abused painkillers. This whole interview was phenomenal per usual. 🙏🏾
The Pivot is Pure Therapy every episode to both the viewers and the guest !!!!!
I have never heard of Ryan Leaf, I got into sports in 2018 when my wife gave birth. This man is a true hero to me. I have so much respect for him. I’ve been incarcerated before and it is a real self reflection experience. This guy is awesome. I’m proud of you Ryan. You make me feel like I can be great again myself.
This was one hell of an episode. Heard parts of his story before but to really hear how he dealt With it all in depth and bounced back is truly remarkable!!!
Next fellas, please get Maurice Clarett.
Man Pivot get the most out of their guest…..what a great podcast!! ✊🏾💯✊🏾
Ryan, I don't know you but as an imperfect human being just like myself I just want to say I love you and I'm extremely proud of you. Don't ever give up on yourself!
So. I’ve never really believed the “absence makes the heart grow fonder” thing. But as soon as I saw Fred I did like a fan scream 😂 Missed you Fred! Glad the gang is all together. And man. This episode is pulling on the heartstrings. Great to witness a redemption story.
Future hof
You rarely hear 100% accountability. I can't think of anyone who couldn't benefit from giving this a listen. Just an incredibly valuable story.
People like Ryan Leaf inspire me so much. I made a lot of awful decisions during college and still deal with a lot of self hate. I hope one day to be the reborn person Ryan is and that I have the courage to share my story with others.
I don’t know you obviously, I just want to say to you keep pushing forward and don’t give up and look for help when you feel you need it, and if you have faith hold on to your faith, God Bless.
@@angelagibbs1717 thanks, I needed to read this today.
This hit home quite a bit. Ryan Leaf is important because he is a great example what it’s like to have everything and still not being enough. The mental anguish opiates have and depression mixed with it is a complete death trap.
Absolutely one of the best hours of “content” I’ve ever consumed. So much respect for the three of you and especially for Ryan for always being so open about his journey 🙏🏻
As someone in recovery and a born bred athlete and fan, here goes your flowers brother Leaf 💐
I was too young to watch Ryan Leaf but I've now watched him on All The Smoke and now The Pivot, will be rooting for him the rest of his life.
This podcast is so impactful. Truth be told I am not an American 🏈 fan, I prefer soccer because I am from the Caribbean but I do see eye to eye with some of the stories especially depression. So thank you for creating this podcast, I have lots of pivots in my life.
53:38 "The fear of someone knowing that you’re hurting, is worse than getting the help you need"
S/O to Ryan man, he is truly an inspiration 💯 Wish him & his family the best....
Great to see Ryan is making a Huge Changes in his Life 👍🏈👍
Man the pivot don’t miss. Every interview is impactful and you can either learn be inspired or motivated about something
He was really talented but all people remember is the bad stories, one of my favorite college QB
I had no idea that Ryan went through all this in his life. I had completely forgotten about the QB who went right behind Peyton Manning. I enjoyed hearing his Pivot and wish him all the best in the years ahead. Salute!
This was an unexpected guest, but definitely one of my favorite episodes. I remember all the negative headlines from Ryan but it’s great to see him doing well now and helping others. Glad he’s writing his redemption story!
Everybody who was getting lit was listening to Cudi. I haven't listened to him since I used to get right 🤣🤣
Shout out to you guys man. This interview moved me to tears just now. This is just as real as it freakin gets. This dude Ryan Leaf flipped the whole script eventually and went from bust to a potential blessing in people's lives.. Incredible!! Just wow.
Very powerful episode. I admit I had a preconceived idea of Ryan leaf due to how his NFL career ended. Thanks for allowing us to hear his story
Man. I respect Leaf so much. To go through everything he's been through and not just be here, but be here and want to help another person is amazing. The Pivot is more than a Podcast. Gotta salute it.
Ryan Leaf seems like the coolest guy I hope he keeps winning in life
i have so much respect for ryan leaf. dude owns his mistakes and teaches others how to come back from their lowest point. very impactful to those who have had similiar feelings and experiences
Great kid Cudi promo 😂
This show is getting better and better and better! I look forward to EVERY episode.
Love y’all man keep giving that great energy
Amazing to watch listen and learn and grow the knowledge. Valuable.
Always respect to Ryan Leaf for being this open and willing to talk about his life.
This was one of the most important interviews in show history. Thanks for sharing this story with us. Transparency is freedom that you can’t buy.
Best interview ever!!! Made me cry...........
This one hit different thank you for the jewel pivot way to serve and to be of service
Back to back episodes have me feeling all emotional while watching, wow! I cannot say enough how you gentlemen simply respect your guests by just letting them speak and tell their story. It's all part of their therapy. Thank you!!👏👏
This episode is incredible!!!! Im loving hearing these stories of redemption!!! Great Job Fellas!!
You guys knocked it out of the park with this episode. Very powerful and helpful.
Much respect🙏🏾💪🏾... Glad He Got to tell his story on a great platform
I really love this show I struggled with addiction in the past and I truly understand a lot of what he said I'm just grateful 4 u guys and this show great show guy
This interview was amazing! I didnt know this side of his story and i respect his growth and ability to show vulnerability because there is always someone that could learn from his experiences. Shoutout to the Pivot always being a blessing to us with this content 🤙🏽
wow , one of my top 5 interviews!!!!! damn this guy really got to turn things around!!!! much respect!!!
I've heard Ryan tell his story on multiple shows over the years. And I have to say this is the most profound rendition of his story I've ever heard. Hell of a story, one hell of a pivot. Well done men
This was GREAT. Amazing how you guys let this man share his story and speak his truth!
Thank you guys! Once again I learned alot about Ryan Leaf & I'm so happy for him turning his life around! Excellent episode! ❤
What a phenomenal conversation. Thanks Ryan, thanks Pivot.
One of the best episode’s, the vulnerability & the realness of this interview 💯
The more I watch these episodes, they jus keep gettin better n better. Amazing!!! You all deserve your flowers💐💐💐👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Exceptional work!!!
Great podcast, it's crazy how Ryan Leaf turned out, to hear his story shines light on what he went through and what others may be going through, what looks good ain't always good, glad to see him doing better
I just want to say thanks guys I’m really struggling my self and hurting like Ryan said I also struggle with addiction and it’s not easy and sometimes feel like taking your life to get it over with thank you to all the pivot workers cast and everyone on it and Ryan leaf I respect you very much for this I hope I can one day get to where you are at thanks guys god bless you All @pivot
This was one of the most impactful interviews I’ve ever heard ..wow
Once again, great episode. I love how you guys give the guest an opportunity to tell their stories completely without guilt or judgement . It’s impactful and can definitely help others who may be going through similar issues . Real talk.
I think this is definitely the single best episode this group has ever released. Incredible story, with A LOT of life lessons & some quotes that are absolute gems
I applaud you Mr. Ryan Leaf. You gave me something to look forward to when everyday is a struggle for me right now.
Thanks for this one fellas...And thanks for your perspective on life Ryan. Respect 🙏🏿
Another impact filled episode, amazing, much luv from Ghana 🇬🇭
Damn, this was a powerful episode. Fred, Chan and RC. Y'all are some pioneers. We all appreciate y'all for what y'all do. I wish Ryan Leaf the best. 💪🏽💯😎🔥
Mannnn....i'm fighting tears watching this. So humbling and real, how could you not feel RL's pain and eventual humility. This is the best damn show on tv, internet, space, where ever. Much respect Ryan...that was not easy, and shout out to RC, Freddy T, and Channing.
There is alot of people out there that look down at and try and judge someone like Leaf and others ... You have no idea how it is to battle MH on a daily basis ... It is a battle that no one wants even on their best day, I am a combat vet that knows all about it ... Please be an encouragement, an avenue of help or just an ear to lean on because God tells us to not judge for we will also be judged. Proud of you Ryan, keep it going brother🏈⭐
This is the most impactful interview ever. Amazing story
Wow I had no idea Ryan had been through all this! He’s living proof to get clean you have to take ownership of your actions instead of blaming everybody else! Glad he’s found his way and realized that blaming everyone else was wrong it was him His story needs to be heard so many people can learn from him !! So glad he’s gotten it together and didn’t just completely lose his battle and fought his way back
It's great to see how he's turned his life around. His response to Jets fan was hilarious.
This is great! No doubt a mental health discussion n his journey will be discussed! Ryan’s story is such a inspiration! Well done!
Man I did not think I would be so glued and enthralled with this interview like I was for the last hour. Just wow is all I can say.
I loved how real Ryan Leaf was. It’s great to see him turn his life around.
shoutout to The Pivot for allowing these guys to tell their story. I can’t lie I never cared for Ryan Leaf but after hearing him talk about what he went through and how it made him a better man in the end, I’m rooting for him and anybody else going through the same struggle! dope interview!
I appreciate Ryan’s openness and honesty.
Glad to see Ryan doing well and in a good place. This was 1 of the best show s yall had me almost ready to drop a tear. Great questions. True concern for a brother man.
Wow! Man…U never know what the next man/woman is going through on the inside, or in their personal lives. This episode of The Pivot was deep, & even though I appreciate my life, I appreciate just a little bit more after watching Ryan Leaf’s testimony. 🙏🏿
Freddie T 💪🏿💪🏿 glad you back chief
Playing kid cudi to hit licks is crazy I couldn’t imagine my homies playing day n night when we on a mission 😂😂😂 gucci for jugging biggie suicidal thoughts for violence 😎
I learned alot from this interview Ryan really expressed real feelings we all feel. He will touch many lives and god bless him.
This one of you guys best interview to date it’s more about life problems not just sports!! I go thru it and have no one to talk too because I fear they gone judge me but it’s eating me up daily…Just want everyone reading this if you going through something in life you will get through it never give up!!!