Farewell to Luis Sharpe: Former NFL Star Turned Addiction Counselor Remembered for His Second Chance at Life

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Former NFL offensive tackle Luis Sharpe, who once protected quarterbacks on the football field and later devoted his life to helping people overcome addiction, has passed away. He was 64 years old.

Sharpe, who played 13 seasons with the Cardinals, is remembered not only for his accomplishments in the NFL but also for his remarkable journey of personal transformation—rising from the depths of addiction to become a dedicated counselor and advocate for recovery.

His death marks the loss of a man who inspired both on and off the field—a man who turned pain into purpose and used his own story to give others hope.

From Cuba to the NFL

Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1960, Sharpe came to the United States with his family at a young age and was raised in Detroit, Michigan. His athletic talents and work ethic led him to UCLA, where he became a standout on the Bruins’ offensive line.

In 1982, he was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals (now Arizona Cardinals) in the first round of the NFL Draft, launching a 13-year professional career. Over nearly 200 career games, Sharpe earned three Pro Bowl selections and built a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable and disciplined offensive linemen.

Teammates and coaches described him as humble, smart, and tenacious. On the field, he was known for his quiet leadership and his ability to keep the spotlight off himself and on the team.

But when his football career ended, Sharpe entered one of the most difficult chapters of his life.

A Fall from Fame—and the Climb Back

After retiring from the NFL in the mid-1990s, Sharpe faced a series of personal struggles, including battles with substance abuse, homelessness, and several arrests. His story became one of public concern, but it also set the stage for one of the most powerful comebacks in recent memory.

Sharpe eventually entered recovery, facing the reality of his addiction and committing himself to healing. What followed was a transformative journey of redemption—not just for himself, but for the many people he would go on to help.

He trained to become a certified addiction counselor, dedicating the remainder of his life to supporting people in recovery. Through his work in rehabilitation centers, outreach programs, and community talks, Sharpe became a powerful voice of hope for those fighting the same battles he once faced.

“He didn’t hide from his past,” said a friend and fellow counselor. “He used it to lift other people up. Luis had a gift for connecting with people who felt like no one understood them.”

A Life That Touched Two Worlds

While many will remember Luis Sharpe as an NFL player, those who met him later in life saw a man deeply committed to helping others find freedom from addiction. His honesty, humility, and compassion made him a trusted presence in recovery circles throughout Phoenix and beyond.

He was often invited to speak at schools, churches, and community centers, telling his story not for sympathy, but to remind people that rock bottom is not the end of the road.

“He used to say that every day sober was a gift,” said one of his former clients. “And he meant it.”

Remembered With Honor and Gratitude

Details surrounding Sharpe’s death have not been made public. However, his passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and respect from both the sports and recovery communities.

The Arizona Cardinals released a statement honoring his contributions to the team and his powerful work after football. “Luis Sharpe will be remembered not only as a fierce competitor but also as a man who found purpose in lifting others. We extend our condolences to his family and all who were touched by his life.”

He is survived by his daughter, extended family, and a wide network of friends, former teammates, and those in recovery whose lives he helped change.

A public memorial service is being planned in the Phoenix area, where Luis spent much of his life after football. Details will be announced in the coming days.

A Legacy of Redemption

Luis Sharpe’s life was not perfect. It was real, raw, and deeply human. In facing his own battles, he found a deeper calling—one that left a lasting mark on everyone he helped.

“Luis showed us that your worst chapters don’t have to define your story,” said one friend. “He didn’t just recover—he rebuilt his life in service to others. And that’s the legacy he leaves behind.”

In a world that often measures success by trophies and titles, Luis Sharpe reminded us that true strength is found in redemption, resilience, and reaching back to lift others.

May he rest in peace—and may his story continue to inspire hope in the hearts of many.