John Ellis Ross III, more commonly known as John Ross, is a former American football wide receiver known for his incredible speed and remarkable potential. A first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, Ross was expected to have a shining career in the NFL. Unfortunately, a series of injuries and setbacks marred his journey, ultimately leading to his retirement at the tender age of 27.
John Ross: The Athlete
Born on November 27, 1995, in Long Beach, California, Ross discovered his love for football at a young age. His talent was evident during his time at the University of Washington, where he put on several memorable performances. His incredible speed, agility, and playmaking abilities attracted the attention of scouts and analysts across the nation. At the 2017 NFL Combine, Ross solidified his status as one of the fastest players in the league by recording a mind-blowing 40-yard dash time of 4.22 seconds – a record that still stands to date.
NFL Draft: The Start of a Promising Journey
His exceptional Combine performance led to his selection as the ninth overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2017 NFL Draft. The Bengals were excited to acquire a player with Ross’s speed and potential, and high expectations followed him into his professional career.
Ross’s Career: Injuries and Setbacks
Despite the anticipation, Ross’s career faced several obstacles from the onset. His rookie season with the Bengals was plagued by a knee injury, sidelining him for a considerable part of the season. The subsequent years saw Ross battling a series of other injuries, including groin and shoulder issues and a foot injury, which considerably limited his time on the field.
In 2021, Ross signed with the New York Giants, hoping for a fresh start. Although he displayed flashes of his initial promise, his playing time remained limited due to ongoing injuries. Unable to perform at his full potential, Ross’s time in the NFL became increasingly frustrating.
The Decision to Retire
In a somewhat surprising move, Ross decided to hang up his cleats at the age of 27. The continuous physical toll, combined with the strain of trying to fulfill high expectations, led him to this difficult decision. While he had signed a Reserve/Future deal with the Kansas City Chiefs and hoped to contribute positively to the team, his body was not cooperating.
John Ross Retired: A Career Remembered
John Ross’s decision to retire from professional football brought a close to a career that promised so much but was cut short due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, he will be remembered for his exceptional speed and the flashes of brilliance he showcased on the field.
His Legacy
Though his career may not have unfolded as he would have liked, John Ross leaves behind a legacy in the NFL. His 40-yard dash record at the NFL Combine remains unbroken, showcasing the remarkable speed that made him a standout prospect.
Though injuries prevented him from fully reaching his potential, the brief moments when he did shine remind us of the talent that Ross possessed. His journey serves as a reminder that in the world of professional sports, talent and potential are often not enough. Overcoming adversity, managing injuries, and maintaining consistency are equally important, if not more, to carve a successful career.
