The greatest one-hit wonders in the NFL: 15 of the most iconic short-term stars…
Sporting News looks back on some of the most well-known NFL players who had unexpectedly successful careers and follows their tales beyond the limelight.
![Matt Flynn Matt Flynn](https://library.sportingnews.com/styles/crop_style_16_9_desktop_webp/s3/2023-11/Matt%20Flynn%20110923.jpg.webp)
Matt Flynn, quarterback for the Green Bay Packers: January 1, 2012 vs. Detroit
In a crucial Week 17 matchup for the playoff-bound Green Bay Packers, backup quarterback Matt Flynn stepped up to the plate to fill in for resting star Aaron Rodgers. Facing off against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field, Flynn found himself in a high-stakes shootout against Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. Flynn’s performance was nothing short of spectacular as he completed 31 of 44 passes for an astounding 480 yards and threw 6 touchdowns. However, Stafford was equally impressive, throwing for 520 yards and 5 touchdowns. The game ultimately tilted in the Packers’ favor with Stafford throwing two interceptions, leading to a thrilling 45-41 victory.
Flynn’s remarkable display of talent in this game garnered serious attention during the 2012 free agency period. He secured a lucrative 3-year, $20 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks, including $9 million in guaranteed money. Despite being slated as the starting quarterback, Flynn lost the training camp battle to rookie third-round pick Russell Wilson.
Following his stint with the Seahawks, Flynn had brief tenures with the Oakland Raiders and the Buffalo Bills before returning to the Packers for two seasons in 2014. He later had short stints with other teams, concluding his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints in 2015.
Where is he now? Flynn has returned to his alma mater, LSU, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he operates MyHy, a hydration beverage company.
Clint Longley, quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys: November 28, 1974 vs. Washington
In a memorable Thanksgiving Day game for the Dallas Cowboys, rookie quarterback Clint Longley was thrust into the spotlight when Hall of Famer Roger Staubach was sidelined due to injury. Facing off against their arch-rivals, the Washington Football Team, Longley showcased his talent and resilience in a remarkable comeback performance.
Despite trailing 16-3 in the fourth quarter, Longley rallied the Cowboys with an impressive display, completing 11 of 20 passes for 203 yards and 2 touchdowns. His heroic efforts culminated in a dramatic game-winning 50-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass to wide receiver Drew Pearson, securing a thrilling 24-23 victory for the Cowboys.
Following this standout performance, Longley earned the nickname “Mad Bomber” for his aggressive style of play. However, his career took a downturn after he infamously punched Staubach during training camp in 1976, leading to his departure from the NFL.
Where is he now? Clint Longley has largely remained out of the public eye since his playing days. He celebrated his 71st birthday in July, maintaining a low profile in retirement.
![Jonas Gray Jonas Gray](https://library.sportingnews.com/styles/crop_style_16_9_desktop_webp/s3/2023-11/Jonas%20Gray%20110823.jpg.webp)
Jonas Gray, running back for the New England Patriots: November 16, 2014 at Indianapolis
With key running backs Stevan Ridley and LeGarrette Blount sidelined, Jonas Gray, an undrafted free agent from 2012, was unexpectedly thrust into the starting role for a crucial Sunday night road game against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 11. Despite entering the game with no career touchdowns and limited previous playing time, Gray seized the opportunity and delivered a memorable performance.
Gray showcased his dominance by punishing the Colts defense with 37 carries, amassing an impressive 201 yards rushing and scoring 4 touchdowns, leading the Patriots to a resounding 42-20 victory in prime time.
However, Gray’s moment in the spotlight was short-lived. In Week 12, he was sidelined by Patriots coaches for a team infraction after oversleeping and missing a meeting. Despite making a brief appearance in the AFC championship game against the Colts, where he rushed for only 4 yards on 4 carries, Gray’s NFL career began to decline.
Following brief stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Miami Dolphins in the 2015 season, Gray never returned to NFL action.
Where is he now? Gray currently serves as the president and CEO of Jonas Gray Consulting, where he works as a performance coach and political strategist.
Jerome Harrison, running back for the Cleveland Browns: December 20, 2009 at Kansas City
During the 2009 season, the Cleveland Browns witnessed a transition in their backfield with veteran Jamal Lewis nearing the end of his career. Jerome Harrison, who had been supporting Lewis in the rushing attack, was considered a backup option.
However, in Week 15 against the Kansas City Chiefs, Harrison was given the opportunity to shine. Carrying the ball an astonishing 34 times, Harrison erupted for 286 yards rushing and scored 3 touchdowns. His remarkable performance still stands as the third-highest single-game rushing total in NFL history.
Harrison continued his strong play, delivering impressive performances in subsequent weeks against the Oakland Raiders and the Jacksonville Jaguars to close out the season.
Unfortunately, Harrison’s career trajectory took a downturn in 2010. He was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles midseason but was later diagnosed with a benign brain tumor that required surgery, effectively ending his NFL career.
Where is he now? Despite facing challenges related to his recovery, Harrison has shown resilience and serves as an inspiration to fans. He continues to make a positive impact beyond the football field.
Jonas Gray, running back for the New England Patriots: November 16, 2014 at Indianapolis
When injuries sidelined key running backs Stevan Ridley and LeGarrette Blount, Jonas Gray, an undrafted free agent from 2012, found himself unexpectedly thrust into the starting role for a crucial Sunday night road game against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 11. Despite lacking prior touchdowns and limited playing time, Gray seized the opportunity and delivered a memorable performance.
Gray dominated the Colts defense with 37 carries, amassing an impressive 201 yards rushing and scoring 4 touchdowns, leading the Patriots to a resounding 42-20 victory in prime time.
However, Gray’s moment in the spotlight was brief. In Week 12, he was sidelined by Patriots coaches for a team infraction after oversleeping and missing a meeting. Despite a brief appearance in the AFC championship game against the Colts, where he rushed for only 4 yards on 4 carries, Gray’s NFL career began to decline.
After brief stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Miami Dolphins in the 2015 season, Gray never returned to NFL action.
Where is he now? Gray currently serves as the president and CEO of Jonas Gray Consulting, where he works as a performance coach and political strategist.
Jerome Harrison, running back for the Cleveland Browns: December 20, 2009 at Kansas City
During the 2009 season, the Cleveland Browns saw a transition in their backfield with veteran Jamal Lewis nearing the end of his career. Jerome Harrison, who had been supporting Lewis in the rushing attack, was considered a backup option.
However, in Week 15 against the Kansas City Chiefs, Harrison was given the opportunity to shine. Carrying the ball an astonishing 34 times, Harrison erupted for 286 yards rushing and scored 3 touchdowns. His remarkable performance still stands as the third-highest single-game rushing total in NFL history.
Harrison continued his strong play, delivering impressive performances in subsequent weeks against the Oakland Raiders and the Jacksonville Jaguars to close out the season.
Unfortunately, Harrison’s career took a downturn in 2010. He was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles midseason but was later diagnosed with a benign brain tumor that required surgery, effectively ending his NFL career.
Where is he now? Despite facing challenges related to his recovery, Harrison has shown resilience and serves as an inspiration to fans. He continues to make a positive impact beyond the football field.
Brock Forsey, running back for the Chicago Bears: November 13, 2003 vs. Arizona
Selected from Boise State in the fifth round of the 2003 draft, Brock Forsey was brought into the Chicago Bears to offer depth behind starting running back Anthony “A-Train” Thomas. The Bears didn’t anticipate him carrying the load in any game. However, Forsey showcased his potential in Week 8 against the Lions, rushing for 56 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries.
In Week 13 against the Cardinals, Forsey received the starting nod due to a lack of healthy options, with Thomas sidelined by viral pneumonia. Despite the unexpected opportunity, Forsey seized the moment, tallying 134 yards on 27 carries with a touchdown. He also contributed 2 receptions for 27 yards in Chicago’s commanding 28-3 victory.
Although Forsey impressed during the subsequent offseason, the Bears deemed him expendable with the costly free-agent acquisition of Thomas Jones. Forsey was released during final preseason cuts and failed to secure a lasting NFL career, with his stint with the Dolphins ending after the 2005 offseason stay with Washington.
Where is he now? Forsey transitioned to jobs in marketing and flooring sales in his native state of Idaho after his playing days, as revealed in a 2020 interview with the Idaho Press.
Jeff Janis, wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers: January 16, 2016 vs. Arizona, NFC Divisional
Jeff Janis initially made his mark with the Packers through kick returns after being selected in the seventh round from Saginaw Valley State in the 2014 draft. Despite limited action as a reserve wide receiver during the 2015 regular season, Janis stepped up in the playoffs when Aaron Rodgers needed him most.
Facing the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Divisional round, Janis showcased his talent by scoring an 8-yard touchdown from Rodgers early in the third quarter. He then caught a 41-yard Hail Mary pass at the final gun in the fourth quarter, helping to tie the game at 20. Janis’ remarkable performance included 7 catches on 11 targets for 145 yards and 2 touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory as the Packers fell 26-20 in overtime.
Injuries hindered Janis ahead of the 2016 season, including a broken hand suffered in training camp, and he remained a little-used backup. Unable to stick with the Browns as a free agent in the 2010 season, Janis redirected his career path.
Where is he now? Janis currently operates Janis Tire and Auto, a tire and auto repair shop in East Tawas, Michigan, near his hometown, which he purchased and renamed in 2019 after working there during high school and college.
Chris Matthews, Wide Receiver for the Seattle Seahawks: February 1, 2015 vs. New England Patriots, Super Bowl 49
Chris Matthews’ journey to his moment in the spotlight was marked by perseverance and resilience. After going undrafted in 2011 and having a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns, he found himself playing in the Arena Football League with the Iowa Barnstormers in 2012. Following two seasons in the Canadian Football League with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Matthews faced a period of uncertainty, working odd jobs including as a security guard.
Matthews’ fortunes changed when he impressed the Seattle Seahawks during a tryout, earning a spot on the team as a wide receiver and special teams player. In the NFC Championship game against the Green Bay Packers, Matthews played a pivotal role by recovering a critical onside kick, contributing to the Seahawks’ epic comeback victory.
His breakout moment came in Super Bowl 49 against the New England Patriots. Nicknamed “Hardball,” Matthews made a significant impact with 4 catches for 109 yards and a touchdown, nearly securing victory for Seattle. However, the game will be remembered for Malcolm Butler’s interception of Russell Wilson at the goal line, sealing a 28-24 win for the Patriots.
Despite his memorable performance, Matthews had limited impact with the Seahawks and was released in November 2015. He later had a brief stint with the Baltimore Ravens before ultimately departing from the NFL in November 2017. Returning to the CFL, Matthews played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Calgary Stampeders, and Montreal Alouettes.
Where is he now? Since stepping out of the NFL and CFL spotlights, there is limited information available about Chris Matthews’ life after football.
Nate Poole, Wide Receiver for the Arizona Cardinals: December 28, 2003 vs. Minnesota
Undrafted out of Marshall University in 2002, Nate Poole made his mark in the NFL during Week 17 of his second season with the Arizona Cardinals. In the 2003 finale against the Minnesota Vikings, Poole delivered a standout performance with 5 catches for 86 yards and a touchdown, including a game-winning 28-yard reception from Josh McCown on the final play of the game.
The Cardinals’ improbable 18-17 victory over the Vikings not only ended Minnesota’s playoff hopes but also propelled the Green Bay Packers into the playoffs. In recognition of his pivotal role, Poole was awarded the key to the city of Green Bay and invited to attend the Packers’ wild-card playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lambeau Field.
Following his memorable performance, Poole dealt with injuries in the 2004 season before joining the New Orleans Saints. Unfortunately, a major knee injury during the 2005 season hastened the end of his NFL career.
Where is he now? Nate Poole currently serves as the wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator for North Carolina A&T’s football program, building on his coaching career that began at Wingate University in 2019.
Percy Howard, Wide Receiver for the Dallas Cowboys: January 18, 1976 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, Super Bowl 10
In Super Bowl 10 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, rookie Percy Howard, known primarily for his kick returning abilities, made a significant impact by catching a 34-yard touchdown pass from Roger Staubach. Despite this notable achievement, it would be Howard’s only scoring catch in his brief NFL career, which spanned just eight regular-season games.
Howard’s football journey was cut short by a career-shortening knee injury during the 1976 preseason. Despite attempts to continue his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers, he was unable to secure a roster spot.
Where is he now? Percy Howard overcame personal challenges and worked various odd jobs after his time in the NFL. He will celebrate his 72nd birthday next January.
![Jesse Holley Jesse Holley](https://library.sportingnews.com/styles/crop_style_16_9_desktop_webp/s3/2023-11/Jesse%20Holley%20110823.jpg.webp)
Jesse Holley, Wide Receiver for the Dallas Cowboys: September 18, 2011 vs. San Francisco
Jesse Holley’s path to the NFL was unconventional, marked by perseverance and a stroke of luck. After unsuccessful attempts to secure a spot with the Cincinnati Bengals and the CFL’s BC Lions, Holley’s breakthrough came in 2009 when he won “4th and Long,” a reality competition show backed by Cowboys Hall of Famer Michael Irvin.
Trading in his jobs as a security guard and cell phone salesman, Holley seized the opportunity to join the Dallas Cowboys, providing depth at wide receiver. His defining moment came in Week 2 of the 2011 season against the San Francisco 49ers. With key receivers Dez Bryant and Miles Austin sidelined due to injuries, Holley stepped up as a super sub, recording 3 catches for 96 yards in a crucial early-season NFC matchup, helping the Cowboys secure a 27-24 victory.
Despite his impressive performance, Holley saw limited action for the rest of the season, hampered by a knee injury. The Cowboys opted not to re-sign him, leading to his retirement before joining the New England Patriots briefly in 2012.
Where is he now? Jesse Holley has transitioned to a career in media, previously contributing to Dallas area AM news/sports/talk radio station KRLD. Currently, he co-hosts the Hangin’ With The Boys Cowboys podcast alongside former offensive lineman Nate Newton and others.
Kony Ealy, Defensive End for the Carolina Panthers: February 7, 2016 vs. Denver Broncos, Super Bowl 50
Selected by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, Kony Ealy was expected to excel as a pass rusher. His standout moment came in Super Bowl 50 against the Denver Broncos. Despite the Panthers’ loss, Ealy showcased his talent with 3 sacks and an interception against Peyton Manning’s Broncos, proving to be a formidable force on defense.
While Von Miller earned MVP honors for his performance, Ealy emerged as the defensive star of the game for the Panthers. His impactful play kept Carolina competitive despite Cam Newton’s late fumble. Notably, Ealy’s 3-sack performance in the Super Bowl accounted for one-fifth of his career regular-season sack total of 15.
Following his tenure with the Panthers, Ealy struggled to maintain a roster spot with teams like the New England Patriots, New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, and Oakland Raiders. Despite attempts to revive his professional career with the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks and the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts in 2020 and 2021, Ealy has yet to return to the NFL.
Where is he now? As of summer 2022, Kony Ealy continued his pursuit of a professional football career, signing with the CFL’s Edmonton Elks after his involvement with the Indoor Football League’s Vegas Knight Hawks.
![Kony Ealy Kony Ealy](https://library.sportingnews.com/styles/crop_style_16_9_desktop_webp/s3/2023-11/Kony%20Ealy%20110823.jpg.webp)
Vernon Perry, Safety for the Houston Oilers: December 29, 1979 vs. San Diego, AFC Divisional
As a full-time undrafted rookie in the 1979 season, Vernon Perry showcased his talent with three interceptions. Following a dominant defensive performance against the Broncos in the AFC wild-card playoffs, Perry delivered a standout performance in the next round against Dan Fouts’ Chargers. Perry intercepted Fouts an astounding four times, propelling the Oilers to a narrow 17-14 victory.
Perry continued to make an impact, intercepting Terry Bradshaw for a pick-six in the Oilers’ 27-13 AFC championship loss to the Steelers. He enjoyed two more solid seasons in Houston before concluding his career with the New Orleans Saints in 1983.
Where is he now? Vernon Perry owns “32 Sports,” a sportswear and sports memorabilia company, a nod to his NFL jersey number. Additionally, he occasionally teaches at his alma mater and hometown college, Jackson State University. Perry will celebrate his 70th birthday in September.
Willie Williams, Cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers: January 14, 1996 vs. Indianapolis, AFC Championship
Drafted in the fifth round of the 1993 NFL Draft from Western Carolina, Willie Williams provided valuable depth at cornerback throughout his 13-season NFL career with three teams, including two stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, his most memorable play occurred in the AFC Championship game against the Indianapolis Colts.
Ahead of the Steelers’ journey to Super Bowl 30 against the Cowboys, Williams prevented a potential game-changing touchdown by stopping Colts running back Chris Warren in his tracks, flying across the field to halt Warren for no gain and force a Colts punt.
Although Williams later joined the Seattle Seahawks in 1997, he returned to the Steelers to finish his career in 2004 and 2005. In the latter season, he became the only player on the Pittsburgh roster to have played in both Super Bowl 30 and Super Bowl 40, where the Steelers emerged victorious over the Seahawks. Williams received his championship ring ten years after his first Super Bowl appearance. Following his release from the Steelers in March, Williams retired from professional football.
Where is he now? Willie Williams notably served as the head coach at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland, from 2017 to 2019. He will celebrate his 53rd birthday in December.