43 NFL players who spent time in other leagues

Arena, the USFL, CFL and other leagues have been the path to the NFL for some players.

David Patten

USA TODAY Sports

David Patten was signed by the Albany Firebirds as a street free agent in 1996. Patten was also a member of the Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots. He earned three Super Bowl rings with the Patriots.