A standout left tackle who earned four Pro Bowl selections and was twice named second-team All-Pro during his career with the Cardinals, passed.
He was drafted in the first round by the St. Louis Cardinals and went on to start all 189 games. He became a cornerstone of the franchise, especially after the team relocated to Arizona, earning Pro Bowl honors in each of his first three seasons in the Valley. Known for his strong presence both on the field and in the media, Sharpe was a fan favorite.
“Luis Sharpe demonstrated incredible strength and resilience throughout his distinguished career with the Cardinals,” said team owner Michael Bidwill. “He showed that same inner toughness when facing personal struggles after football. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones, especially his family and former teammates.”
After his playing days, Sharpe endured a long battle with drug addiction, including time in prison. He turned his life around after getting sober, relocating to his home state of Michigan in 2015 to rebuild his life away from Arizona.
In a 2020 interview with The Athletic, Sharpe reflected, “I now feel like I have purpose—more than I ever did playing football. My life is better today. What once felt like my biggest curse has become my greatest blessing.”
In his later years, Sharpe worked at a sobriety clinic in Detroit, counseling others and collaborating with the NFL to support former players transitioning out of the game.
“I know I have the life I do today because I’ve overcome so many hardships,” he said. “I believe God gave me this mission—to use my story to inspire others. If I can stand here as a productive person after everything, so can they.”
