Each year, the NFL Draft closes with a unique distinction: the very last player selected is called "Mr Irrelevant." While the label sounds dismissive, recent history proves that Mr Irrelevant can be anything but. This article dives into the origins, significance, historic results, and surprising stars who have worn the title proudly.

What Does Mr Irrelevant Mean?

The term "Mr Irrelevant" emerged in the 1970s. Former NFL receiver Paul Salata founded the tradition to honor the draft’s ultimate underdog. Rather than seeing the last pick as forgotten, Irrelevant Week began as a celebration and a blend of sportsmanship and charity.

NFL teams and fans soon embraced the concept. The final pick is now recognized with events that highlight perseverance and potential—reminding everyone that the journey to NFL stardom can start from any spot in the draft.

A Look at Mr Irrelevant’s NFL Performance

Being crowned Mr Irrelevant does not guarantee NFL success—but it doesn’t rule it out either. An in-depth analysis by NCAA.com found that, from 2012 to 2022, the average Mr Irrelevant played about 11 regular-season games in the league. While this is less than many of their draft peers, standout performances do occur.

For example, Tae Crowder, selected last in 2020, went on to start 23 games and logged over 130 tackles in a season, a remarkable achievement for any late-round pick. Grant Stuard, Mr Irrelevant for 2021, played all regular season games for the reigning Super Bowl champions. Then, in 2022, quarterback Brock Purdy made headlines as he stepped in for the San Francisco 49ers. He not only threw touchdown passes but also led the team deep into the playoffs, shattering expectations for a final pick. These stories show that the Mr Irrelevant label sometimes turns into a badge of perseverance and accomplishment.

The Odds and Challenges of the Final Draft Pick

Seventh-round picks typically face more hurdles to make NFL rosters. According to the same NCAA.com review, seventh-rounders average about 28.1 regular-season games in their careers, while the last pick, Mr Irrelevant, averages less than half that. Yet, as seen with Crowder and Purdy, determination and the right circumstances can turn the last pick into an impact player.

Test Your Mr Irrelevant Knowledge

For fans interested in the history and trivia around this unique honor, take the Mr Irrelevant NFL Draft quiz on Yardbarker to see how many final draft picks since 2000 you can recall. It’s a fun way to appreciate the stories of these NFL underdogs.

Conclusion: Relevance in Every Opportunity

The legacy of Mr Irrelevant reminds us that every pick in the NFL Draft holds potential. While some last picks struggle to make an impact, others rise and become memorable contributors. Their journeys inspire fans and prove that opportunity can come from unexpected places in professional sports. Next time you hear "Mr Irrelevant," remember: sometimes, the journey from the bottom leaves the greatest mark.