After 16 seasons in the NFL, Kerry Collins called it quits temporarily. Collins, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, agreed to terms with the Indianapolis Colts to back up Peyton Manning. Often referred to as a game manager, he led several teams to winning seasons.

The Panthers spent their first-round pick on Collins in the 1995 NFL draft. He played for Carolina for three seasons and during his second season led them to the NFC Championship Game. In 1998, four games into the season, Collins was placed on waivers after asking then-head coach Dom Capers for a trade. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints.

Collins played in seven games for the Saints, throwing four touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His '98 season was plagued with a battle of alcoholism and he was arrested for drunk driving in November. The Giants signed him as a free agent and helped rehabilitate Collins on and off the field.

Collins began the 1999 season as the second-string quarterback, but claimed the starting job soon after. In 2000, Collins led the Giants to a Super Bowl appearance against the Baltimore Ravens. Collins was released in 2004 after starting 68 games in New York.

Following his release from the New York Giants, Collins signed to a three-year, $16.82 million contract with the Raiders. Rich Gannon was the starter in 2004, but Collins assumed that role midseason after Gannon sustained a career-ending injury. Collins finished with a 7-21 record with the Raiders and was cut in March of 2006.

Collins played with the Titans for five seasons, leading them to a playoff berth in 2008. He played in 43 games during his time with Tennessee and amassed more than 4,500 passing yards. He announced his retirement on July 7, 2011