C.J. Spiller and 4 NFL Players Clawing Back from Bust Territory

The general consensus is giving a player about three years in the NFL is long enough to determine whether or not he can make it. 

But these days, with information going around so fast and expectations higher than ever, we are often too quick to judge players who may just need a new situation or another season to establish themselves. This season, we have seen a handful of disappointing players find new life. 

One of those guys is C.J. Spiller, who was regulated to wide receiver duty due to the spectacular play of Fred Jackson. Now that Jackson is on IR, Spiller now has an opportunity to show what he can do. Against the Titans this Sunday, he didn't put up spectacular numbers, but he showed some of the burst and explosion that made him the ninth overall selection in the 2010 draft.

Even in a loss (and after an awful fumble for a touchback), Bills fans have to be excited with the progress of their young running back.

Here are four guys who are starting to get rid of the "bust" level. 

Aaron Maybin

After being called "the worst football player in the NFL," the turnaround for Maybin has been nothing short of spectacular.

He's not a complete linebacker, but in passing situations, Maybin is just relentless. He's too light to be in base packages, but he has made several plays for the Jets in clutch situations that have led to turnovers and have turned games around.

He may be a one-trick pony, but the Jets have found a way to alter their gameplan to put Maybin in a position to succeed, which is what the Bills' coaching staff failed to do. 

Kyle Wilson

Sticking with the Jets, their 2010 first round corner has had a great season so far. As a rookie, he struggled to even make it into the Jets' nickel packages; now, he is the starting nickel on a team that values cornerbacks more than anyone.

He reportedly spent the offseason training with Darrelle Revis, which seems like a good idea to me. It appears to be paying off.

Michael Crabtree

Just a year ago, there was a rumor of a rift between Crabtree and his quarterback, Alex Smith. 

It appears as if things have been ironed out. 

Crabtree is showing his exceptional route-running ability that warranted his selection 10th overall. He is not putting up huge numbers, but he is clearly a weapon that teams must prepare for. 

Kevin Smith

Kevin Smith always had ability as a runner, but he could never stay on the field. Now that he has gotten a second chance, he is showing why the Lions made a huge mistake in letting him go, while giving the Lions the rushing threat they have lacked since Jahvid Best went down. 

Smith isn't removing his "bust" label; his story of perseverance is one of the best feel-good stories in sports this year.