The review of "Cocaine Quarterback: Signal-Caller for the Cartel," a 2025 documentary series on Prime Video, presents a gripping true story about Owen Hanson, a former USC college football walk-on turned drug cartel kingpin. The documentary portrays his rise from a minor role on two national championship teams to a major drug trafficker making up to $1 million a day in cocaine sales. It depicts the stark contrast between his sports potential and his criminal exploits, explaining that his desire for adrenaline and quick money led to his downfall and long federal prison sentence. Hanson is shown as a charismatic storyteller who acknowledges his ADHD and the hustle mentality that transitioned him from drugs to a legitimate business producing protein ice cream. The series is noted for its entertaining, almost Hollywood-scripted drama, with some discrepancies and conflicting narratives between Hanson and his associates, and it highlights a cautionary tale of wasted talent due to poor choices. This documentary was released on September 25, 2025, and has received attention for its compelling storytelling and dramatic real-life events surrounding Hanson's criminal activities and eventual capture.
