Long 'apprenticeships' for players who were productive

[Bryan]

Here are a few that came to my mind:

Rocky Bleier - Sure, war injuries, but even so Bleier still didn't start until midway through his 5th season. Kind of odd, especially for a RB.

Ed Newman - was actually on Miami's last title team, was a spot starter for 6 seasons before finally becoming a full-time starter in season 7. His last four years saw him earn Pro Bowl and various All-Pro honors each year.

Cliff Stoudt - didn't play at all from 77-79, finally saw action in 1980, and didn't become the starting QB until 1983...7 years after he was drafted. Two interesting things about Stoudt were that he was terrible in the preseason yet still kept his "job", and he tore up the USFL.

[JuggernautJ]

Even as an Apprentice (Printing) I had to perform at Journeyman level so, from my experience, an "apprenticeship" could include "starting" for one team before being recognized as accomplished with another.

In that case, I'd mention Steve Young as having served the ultimate apprenticeship (like, six NFL seasons and two in the USFL) before finding success at the highest level.

By the way, and I admit this is a minor peeve of mine, we often use the term "Journeyman" as a pejorative.
In actuality a Journeyman is a title that indicates one can perform their specific job at an acceptable level of skill in any place of employment.
A Journeyman has a particular level of training and skill and is certified to be capable.
The title is a rank of accomplishment, not an insult.
[/rant]

[BD Sullivan]

Aaron Rodgers had to wait three years before he got his shot.

[Sonny9]

The old time QBs probably have a few. Jurgensen played sparingly the first 4 years. Dawson, in 5 years, only 45 pass attempts.

Pitt James Harrison from 2002-2006 started 8 games, next 5 seasons all Pro Bowls

Leroy Kelly 43 carries his first 2 years.

[JeffreyMiller]

Daryle Lamonica, then Ken Stabler