Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver John Ross entered the National Football League with a ton of hype. After running one of the fastest 40-yard dashes in Scouting Combine history, people projected him to be a solid player when hitting the league.

People, from experts to fans, apparently didn't project enough of a learning curve for the youngster. John Ross has gone from everyone's favorite speedster, to one of the most maligned rookies in the entire NFL.

Ross, who was the ninth overall pick in April’s draft, has only played 11 snaps all year thanks to a knee injury and coaching decisions. The latter could be a huge reason for nearly no role this season, although, it is worth noting that an early season fumble also likely played a factor.

Nevertheless, John Ross says he can still help the Bengals this season.

“I think I could help contribute,” Ross said, via ESPN.com. “It’s tough for me to say what I think I can do, because I don’t like talking like I’m some type of ‘a guy’ where I can just do whatever I think can do. I live in the moment, I work hard, and I’d rather just show you more than I can tell you.”

As a fun random note: Ross is — at least at the time of this writing — rated with a speed of 98 in the Madden video game, making him the “fastest” player in it. If nothing else, for people who use speed to wallop opponents, he remains a good option in the video game.

For the Bengals, only time will tell.