Selected fourth overall in the 1982 NFL Draft by the Colts, where he played in Baltimore and Indianapolis, Schlichter appeared in only 13 games and six starts due to his gambling problems. He found greater success in the AFL when he was named Most Valuable Player and led the Drive to victory in ArenaBowl IV during the 1990 season, but his addiction also forced him out of the league. Schlichter continued to face legal problems after the end of his football career and is currently serving a 10-year sentence on theft charges related to gambling.