Steal

What does Steal - football Mean?

In football, a player acquired by a team as a low draft pick or undrafted who exceeds expectations, or an unexpected higher draft choice who goes on to have a successful career.

Sporting Charts explains Steal - football

One of the best examples of a steal is superstar Tom Brady, who was drafted in the sixth round by the New England Patriots. Some good examples of an undrafted player who exceeded expectations were Warren Moon (in the Pro Football Hall of Fame), James Harrison of the Steelers and Antonio Gates of the Chargers. The Buffalo Bills are traditionally known as making the best out of low draft picks, featuring players like Stevie Johnson and Fred Jackson.

The opposite of a steal, a hyped player who doesn't live up to expectations, is known as a "bust."