The NFL is a tough business with tough people who understand how to navigate the ups and downs of the game. Some days you’re on top of the world and then within the blink of an eye, your career is over and you’re just another citizen. For some, a regular life without the glitz and glam is an easy transition while others struggle away from the spotlight and spend countless days and years looking for their next phase, their next challenge, their next reason why. 

“I’m glad that it (return to football), never worked out in any capacity because now what I’m doing is what I love.” – (Marques), 12:01

My guest today knows how it feels to be in the NFL, flying high in a space where only the most elite athletes soar. He also knows what it’s like to come crashing down. Marques Ogden is a man who has lived many lives, and he has astutely used each one to build what now stands as a model story of perseverance and success. After a successful stint in the NFL, he found his life spiraling out of control, but unlike many others who never gained control, he did. Ogden did and his journey from the depths of despair to the highest highs of success is truly amazing. 

“Wherever Prime goes, the media, the stars, all that, the lights follow. That’s just the way it is.” (Marques), 14:00

Today, Ogden sits down with us to discuss his views on mental health and professional sports, life as an NFL player, growing up with an older brother who is an NFL legend, and how he repositioned himself to become one of the most in-demand public speakers in the world. It’s an incredible conversation with a man who is bent on helping others reach their highest level.

“A lot of athletes live for their sport and when that sport is gone you don’t know what to do next and that’s how I felt when I lost football.” – (Marques), 19:25

“When I see people in any job, I don’t ever judge, I don’t ever assume, I don’t ever say that’s all they can do.” – (Marques), 34:35

In this episode:

• (3:47) – Mental health and the NFL.

• (5:10) – Marques discusses his divorce and therapy.

• (6:45) – How the NFL helped Marques during his financial storm. 

• (8:20) – Players are stigmatized surrounding their healthcare.

• (9:40) – Marques laments the challenges older players face in terms of healthcare. 

• (12:05) – Marques expresses gratitude about his journey.

• (16:00) – Marques tips his hat to coaches on all levels. 

• (17:52) – Marques discusses the mental strain that comes with physical limitations.

• (20:03) – Andre the Giant and his struggles are discussed by Marques. 

• (22:05) – Marques discusses his financial habits while playing in the NFL. 

• (23:00)  - Marques reveals the rationale behind his 150 tattoos. 

• (24:00) – The danger of drinking and tattooing. 

• (27:58) – Marques discusses uncomfortable times playing center. 

• (29:20) – How stem cell treatment has helped Marques and his health. 

• (30:10) – The things Marques misses and the things he doesn’t.

• (32:10) – Being selfish taught Marques a business lesson. 

• (34:58) – The importance of knowing the entire story.

• (38:16) – Danny discusses the need to have a hustle and the danger of burnout. 

• (39:27) – Lessons learned from football and how Marques uses that in business. 

• (41:52) – Dark days after Marques divorced his wife.

• (43:25) – Marques purchases his dream home, six months after being in a dilapidated apartment.

• (44:35) – Marques encourages listeners to pursue what they want while remaining astute. 

Our Guest

Growing up in a single-parent home with a father who inspired perseverance and fairness, Marques Ogden learned how to define his values and set goals. Ogden attended Howard University from 1998-2002 where he played Division I football. Ogden then followed his dream and his brother Jonathan’s footsteps, eventually getting drafted into the NFL in 2003. Overall, he played for 5 years as an offensive lineman with the Titans, Bills, Ravens, and Jaguars. Even during the off-season, Ogden helped train football players in Europe, both physically and mentally. 

Resources & Links

Off The Cuff

• https://www.offthecuff.fm/ 

• https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore 

• https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/ 

• https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ 

Marques Ogden

• https://marquesogden.com/

• https://www.instagram.com/marquesogden/

• https://www.facebook.com/MarquesOgdenSpeaker/

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquesogden 

• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbROb_i2Ef3mr6OFoBOFjuQ