GLENDALE – Former three-time Pro Bowler left tackle for the Arizona Cardinals, Luis Sharpe, has passed away at the age of 65. Sharpe was a former 16th overall pick in the 1982 draft by the St. Louis Cardinals and played 13 seasons with the franchise. In his 189 game career, Sharpe saw the franchise transfer from St. Louis to Phoenix and was a staple of the team’s offensive line for over a decade.
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1989; Tempe, AZ, USA; People gathered at the site of the future Cardinals training site on the corners of Hardy Drive and Warner Road in Tempe. Pictured in attendance are Gene Stallings, Luis Sharpe (offensive tackle), Neil Lomax (quarterback), Bill Bidwell and Larry Wilson; Mandatory credit: The Arizona Republic-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Cardinals Owner Michael Bidwill on Sharpe:
“Throughout his lengthy and accomplished career with the Cardinals, Luis Sharpe exhibited an uncommon 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.
Sharpe’s wife, Tameka Williams-Sharpe, spoke on social media and stated, “strength, love and faith were a light to all who knew him.” The Havana, Cuba native was supported by his wife and his child, Leah, after his legendary playing career in Arizona.
Nov 29, 1987; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; St. Louis Cardinals offensive tackle Luis Sharpe (67) in action against Atlanta Falcons defensive end Greg Brown (98) at Fulton County Stadium during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
After his career on the field, Sharpe took the initiative to help fellow former players with their physical and mental health. The former NFL lineman struggled through his own addictions and powered through his own struggles to better himself and others. Sharpe said in an Athletic article five years ago that helping other gave him a sense of purpose and was much more significant than his football career.
Husband, father, football player and a stellar human being defies the life of Sharpe as he sadly passed away on Saturday.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
