Deshone Kizer, a former starting quarterback with the Cleveland Browns, became a polarizing figure in the NFL due to a severe on-field collision and the controversies that surrounded his career. This piece explores the defining moments, the consequences of his most infamous play, and how the narrative around him evolved over time.
Below is a structured overview of the key phases and turning points that shaped his professional trajectory and public perception.
| Season | Team | Key Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Cleveland Browns | Week 14 hit on Kendall Lamm | Concussion, season-ending, suspension |
| 2018 | Cleveland Browns | Placed on injured reserve | Released days later |
| 2019 | New York Jets | Signed one-year contract | Released before season start |
| 2020 | Houston Roughnecks (XFL) | Selected in open phase | Season cancelled due to pandemic |
| 2021 | Vegas Vipers (XFL) | Selected in open phase | Retired after training camp |
The Hit on Kendall Lamm and Its Immediate Fallout
Week 14 Incident Leading to Season-Ending Injury
In the 2018 season, Deshone Kizer’s most talked-about play came when he lowered his shoulder and collided with Panthers defensive end Kendall Lamm, who was already down. The violent contact resulted in a concussion for Kizer, and the Browns placed him on injured reserve, effectively ending his season. The NFL subsequently suspended him for one game due to dangerous conduct, raising questions about his judgment and technique.
Release from the Browns and Short-Term Opportunities
Just days after placing him on injured reserve, the Browns released Kizer, ending what had been a turbulent tenure. He signed with the New York Jets in 2019 but was cut before the regular season began, signaling the end of his time in the NFL. These moves underscored how quickly the narrative shifted from potential to liability.
Performance and Development During His Rookie Year
Initial Promise as a Second-Round Pick
Drafted in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kizer entered the league as a young quarterback with athletic versatility. Early in his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns, he showed flashes of improvisation and mobility, earning attention for his willingness to extend plays. However, inconsistent accuracy and decision-making limited his long-term prospects.
Struggles Under Pressure and Turnover Trends
As the season progressed, Kizer’s struggles in critical situations became more apparent, particularly when facing pass rushes. His high number of sacks and interceptions contributed to a perception of volatility. By the midpoint of the year, it became clear that his development had plateaued, leading to increased scrutiny from fans and media alike.
Life After the NFL and Attempted Comebacks
XFL Stints and Final Retirement Decision
After his NFL career, Kizer joined the XFL, first with the Houston Roughnecks in 2020 and then the Vegas Vipers in 2021. However, his time in the league was short-lived, as he retired from playing during training camp with Vegas. This marked the final chapter in a professional journey that never fully realized the expectations drafted upon him.
Post-Football Direction and Public Narrative
Since retiring, Kizer has largely stepped away from the public eye, focusing on personal growth rather than remaining in the sports conversation. The earlier debates around his on-field decisions, leadership, and maturity have faded, replaced by more general interest in his current endeavors and how he has moved past his football career.
Comparative Context Among Late-Round Quarterbacks
When measured against other second-round quarterbacks of his draft class, Kizer’s trajectory stands out for its abrupt decline rather than steady growth. Understanding where he stood relative to peers helps contextualize why his career ended sooner than many anticipated.
| Quarterback | Draft Year & Pick | Teams Played For | Career Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deshone Kizer | 2017, #51 | Cleveland Browns, New York Jets | Retired |
| Josh Allen | 2018, #7 | Buffalo Bills | Active, Super Bowl contender |
| Lamar Jackson | 2018, #32 | Baltimore Ravens | Active, MVP candidate |
| Jameis Winston | 2015, #1 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints | Active, veteran leader |
Frequently Asked Questions About Deshone Kizer
Why was Deshone Kizer suspended in 2018?
Kizer received a one-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on player safety after delivering a hit deemed unnecessarily violent to a defenseless opponent.
What caused the end of his NFL career so quickly?
A combination of inconsistent performance, injuries, and a high-profile on-field incident led teams to lose confidence in his ability to contribute at the professional level.
Did he ever play in the NFL again after being released by the Browns?
He signed with the New York Jets in 2019 but was released before the season started, effectively closing his door on NFL opportunities.
How does Deshone Kizer’s career compare to other second-round quarterbacks?
Unlike many second-round quarterbacks who developed into reliable starters, Kizer’s career declined rapidly due to performance and disciplinary issues.
Key Takeaways and Lessons from Kizer’s Career
- A single high-risk play can overshadow an entire professional journey.
- Consistency and decision-making are critical for quarterbacks in the NFL.
- Injuries and discipline issues can accelerate the end of a promising career.
- How a player responds to setbacks shapes his long-term legacy.
- Transitioning out of professional sports requires planning beyond athletic identity.