Tom Brady and 4 NFL Players Facing Steepest Career Declines

It is not just the fact that the Patriots have lost a rare two games in a row—it is how they are losing.

Brady is looking worse and worse as each week progresses. He is missing open receivers and looks uncomfortable in the pocket.

Watching Brady struggle over the past few weeks, it appears as if opponents have "figured out" how to stop Brady and the juggernaut Patriots offense. 

The reasons for Brady's recent decline is unclear (is it the haircut?). Just two months ago, Brady was on pace to break every passing record in NFL history.

Now, the Patriots are no longer a lock to make the playoffs, and Brady's performance drop-off is the primary reason why New England finds itself in a three-way tie for first place in the AFC East.

Let's take a look at other players who are currently on a rapid career decline.

Todd Heap

Once the driving force of the Ravens offense, Todd Heap is having a tough time just getting healthy and on the field for the Cardinals.

He has just 150 yards receiving on the season. Given his age, you have to wonder if his injury woes are ever going to go away. 

Heap had a great season for the Ravens last year, but if he can't stay healthy, we may have seen the best of the Arizona State product.

Chris Johnson

Johnson had a better game statistically last week than he has all season, but the numbers don't tell the story.

CJ still looks slow and timid, does not embrace contact and is not running with any physicality. 

Johnson's drop-off is probably a direct result of his holdout, but his lack of explosiveness is alarming.

If he does not at least show some improvement, the Titans may decide to cut Johnson and be free of the massive contract they gave him this summer. 

Thomas Jones

Last year, Jones was part of a backfield that led the NFL in rushing.

Now, even with Jamaal Charles out for season, he is losing carries to the likes of Jackie Battle. 

Jones has no more explosiveness and does nothing to scare opposing defenses.

It appears that the Chiefs have him under contract more for his leadership skills than what he brings to the table as a runner. 

Aubrayo Franklin

Once a dominant nose tackle for the 49ers, Franklin is looking more and more like an average player as the season wears on.

The Saints have struggled against the run this season, and Franklin's inability to be the run-stuffer he once was is a big reason why. 

As Franklin continues to struggle, the smarter Trent Baalke looks for not re-signing him this offseason.