Bills Ex-QB Breaks Down 'Embarrassing' Final NFL Moment
Former USC quarterback Matt Leinart was one of the greatest college signal-caller ever. His success in the NFL, however, wasn't even close to that same level.
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The former 10th overall pick and national champion struggled mightily throughout his seven-year career.
While he was known more as a Cardinal, Leinart's career ended as a member of the Buffalo Bills. After a short stint with the Houston Texans and Oakland Raiders, Leinart was given a chance to earn a spot on the roster of the 2013 Bills.
Things didn't go quite to plan, though. Leinart didn't make the 53-man roster and instead retired.
Leinart opened up about that final preseason game on his Throwbacks podcast while explaining what that felt like.
"I stood on that sideline like someone passed away in my family, dude," said Leinart as he reminisced about the 35-13 preseason loss. "I kept my helmet on so no one could see my face. I was embarrassed. I was so embarrassed that it would be my last time ever on a football field, and I just knew it."
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Leinart's numbers that day, 3-of-10 with two interceptions, enhanced the notion that would be his final game in the league. Now, the left-handed quarterback is a college football analyst on FOX.
Leinart never really worked out in the pros, but he will remain a legend for his work as a Heisman Trophy winner and National Champion.
And despite some "embarrassment'' along the way? That will be enough for him.
Related: Bills' 'Magical' James Cook Gets Brutal Prediction from Insider
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 22, 2025, where it first appeared.
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