Total Pro Sports
Former NFL star Luis Sharpe has passed away at the age of 65.
Sharpe, a legendary left tackle who was a staple on the Arizona Cardinals’ offensive line for over a decade and is recognized as one of the greatest linemen in franchise history, died this Saturday.
A three-time Pro Bowler, Sharpe played all of his 13 seasons in the NFL with the Cardinals, starting in all of his 189 appearances.
The Cardinals icon, who represented both St. Louis and Arizona, was born in Havana, Cuba, but was raised in Detroit. He attended UCLA, and his exploits for the college saw him drafted as a first-round pick in 1982.
Luis Sharpe endeared himself to fans on account of his toughness and consistency. Unfortunately, life took a poor turn after he retired, as he struggled with addiction and was arrested several times. He also survived two gunshot wounds he sustained in drug-related incidents.
In more recent years, Sharpe had changed his life, turning to faith after undertaking Bible study while in prison. He spent the last eight years of his life in sobriety, dedicating himself to helping others.
“Throughout his lengthy and accomplished career with the Cardinals, Luis Sharpe exhibited an uncommon type of strength and toughness that made him so successful as a player. Admirably, he would later demonstrate those same traits in dealing with the personal challenges he faced when his career was over. We send our deepest condolences to all of those who loved Luis, in particular his family and former teammates,” Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill said in a statement.
The former lineman, along with his daughter Rebekah, would become an ambassador for Hall of Fame Health, using his life experiences to raise awareness regarding addiction and mental health for former athletes.
TPS would like to sympathize with Luis Sharpe’s family, friends, loved ones, and the Cardinals organization.
May he rest in peace.
Also Read: College Football Star Running Back Has Tragically Died At Just 20 Years Old
