NFL Greatest Unsung Heroes In History of All 32 Teams

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 8: Joe Jurevicius #83 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs with the ball while pursued by Ray Buchanan #34 of the Atlanta Falcons during the NFL game on December 8, 2002 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Falcons 34-10. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

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Los Angeles Rams

player. 51. . CB. St. Louis Rams. Dre Bly . 18

Probably one of the biggest mistakes the Rams franchise ever made was letting Dre Bly walk. Here’s a guy who was one of the most underrated playmakers of the most successful period in franchise history and they let him walk after just four seasons. He would end up landing in Detroit where he’d promptly go to two-straight Pro Bowls.

Bly established himself as a playmaker in big games right from the outset as a rookie. His first shining moment came against the Carolina Panthers. The Rams had built a 21-0 lead but were in danger of coughing it up after Carolina rallied to make it 24-21. Then Bly put an end to it with a huge interception return for a touchdown.

That was merely the appetizer. A few weeks later the Rams were fighting for their lives in the NFC championship. Trailing 6-5 in the 4th quarter, the offense could get nothing going and Tampa Bay was driving towards a possible knockout blow. Bly again came out of nowhere to intercept a pass. This set St. Louis up in great field position, leading to Ricky Proehl’s decisive touchdown just moments later, sending the Rams to the Super Bowl in an 11-6 win.

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