KUSA - Luther Elliss was a two time Pro-Bowler with the Detroit Lions. He played one season, his last, in Denver before retiring. That's really where his long journey back to football began.
"When you're 24/7 football, everything in your life revolves around football, your vacation time, your family time, football is that pivotal point for you so when you lose that your're trying to fill that void, fill that gap," Elliss said.
He had also lost that NFL paycheck and was determined to make it back in the business world.
"I call it the Superman syndrome. A lot of us have never failed. Anything we touch turns to gold, we have that Midas touch a little," Elliss told 9NEWS.
This new chapter was a new world for Luther and for the first time in his life he failed.
"Trust me there were some bad decisions in there and I'll be honest a little bit of greed," he said.
Elliss was trying to make an honest living, but the millions he earned on the field was gone.
"You still get labeled though," said Elliss. "Bankruptcy is bankruptcy."
Ellis had a family to support, quite a family.
"We have 12 children," he said laughing. Five of his kids are biological and seven are adopted. Elliss also has his religion. and through all the low points, he had that to lean on.
"Not just my belief in the Lord but my wife's also. Because of our faith we stayed together, we have 12 children and we trusted the Lord and he provided for them," Elliss said.
Playing experience, business experience and faith. The Broncos thought Ellis was the perfect person to have around the guys.
"If I could know what I know now, if I could go back a few years and apply that how different things could be," said Elliss. "So if I could take that knowledge and help these younger guys and reach out to them and just be here, be here for them."
For 10 years on the field, Elliss knew exactly what was expected of him. And for 10 years after he was a bit lost. He found his purpose again.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity and I think this position is not only needed here but throughout the league because this life and things that can happen can push you 1 direction or many and you have to stay grounded," Elliss said. "I think someone in my position can help them stay grounded. I really feel like this is the right time and it's what I should be doing. This is my passion."
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