From Rags to Riches: NFL Players Who Overcame Extreme Odds

Michael Oher

Born to a drug-addicted mother and raised in foster care, Michael Oher was homeless before being taken in by the Tuohy family. His story became the basis for 'The Blind Side'. Oher overcame all odds to become a Super Bowl champion with the Ravens.

Antonio Brown

Antonio Brown grew up in poverty and was kicked out of his home at age 16. He slept on friends’ couches and battled his way into college football. Despite being a sixth-round pick, he became one of the NFL’s top receivers (before controversy later derailed his career).

Lamar Jackson

Raised by a single mother after losing his father and grandmother on the same day, Lamar Jackson trained in parks with no real facilities. He was doubted due to his unconventional style. He rose to become the 2019 NFL MVP and a face of the league.

Jimmy Graham

Jimmy Graham spent time in a group home where he was physically abused as a child. He was adopted as a teen and used sports to escape trauma. He transitioned from college basketball to become an elite NFL tight end.

Jason Pierre-Paul

The son of Haitian immigrants, JPP grew up in a tough neighborhood in Florida. He lost fingers in a fireworks accident yet returned to the NFL. He’s now a Super Bowl champion and respected pass rusher.

Kurt Warner

Undrafted out of college, Kurt Warner stocked grocery shelves for $5.50 an hour. He played in the Arena League before getting a shot with the Rams. He won two NFL MVPs and a Super Bowl, defying every odd.

Trent Williams

Raised in poverty in Texas, Trent Williams experienced food insecurity growing up. He battled cancer and nearly walked away from football. He returned stronger than ever and became the highest-paid offensive lineman.

Josh Jacobs

Josh Jacobs was homeless in middle school, often sleeping in his dad’s car. Despite no big college offers initially, he worked his way to Alabama. He became a first-round pick and one of the NFL’s top running backs.

Patrick Willis

Patrick Willis picked cotton as a child and raised his siblings due to an abusive father. He moved in with his high school coach to escape hardship. He became a seven-time Pro Bowler and 49ers legend.

Deshaun Watson

Deshaun Watson grew up in public housing and was raised by a single mother who battled tongue cancer. He received support from Habitat for Humanity as a child. Despite setbacks, he became a top NFL quarterback.

Demaryius Thomas

Raised by his aunt and uncle after his mother was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Demaryius Thomas used football as his escape. He became a beloved wide receiver and Super Bowl champion before tragically passing in 2021.

Darrelle Revis

Darrelle Revis was raised in a dangerous part of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, known for crime and poverty. He used sports to stay out of trouble. Revis Island became one of the most feared zones in NFL history.

Larry Fitzgerald

His mother died of breast cancer while he was in college. He played through grief and supported his family emotionally and financially. He went on to become one of the most respected wide receivers ever.

Tyrann Mathieu

Tyrann Mathieu was kicked off his college team due to off-field issues and had a troubled upbringing. Raised by grandparents, he battled instability and drugs. He turned his life around to become a Pro Bowl safety and Super Bowl champion.

Efe Obada

Born in Nigeria, trafficked to the UK as a child, and homeless as a teen, Efe Obada had no football background. He found the sport through a British American football team. He made it to the NFL and now inspires other international players.