Falcons running back Devonta Freeman discusses his upbringing in the Pork 'n' Beans projects in Miami and how he learned about life and death by working at a funeral home. (5:29)

Freeman: 'I was one of the fortunate ones to make it out' (5:29)

Atlanta Falcons Pro Bowl running back Devonta Freeman has not forgotten his Miami roots.

Freeman's compelling saga of overcoming the odds was described in this video narrated by ESPN's Jim Trotter. Then this week, Freeman shared his story with football players at Miami Jackson High School, which recently made the news for hiring Florida's first female head coach -- reality TV star Lakatriona Brunson.

Freeman's mentor Luther Campbell, better known as Luke Skyywalker of the The 2 Live Crew rap group, was named Miami Jackson's defensive coordinator. Campbell posted Freeman's guest appearance on Instagram:

Miami Jackson Senior High Football would like to thank #atlantafalcons @devontafreeman for stopping by and talking to the kids about how hard work pays off! #Miami #football A photo posted by LUTHER CAMPBELL (@unclelukereal1) on Feb 18, 2016 at 7:42pm PST

Freeman played at Miami Central High and led his school to the 6A state title before attending Florida State, where he won a national title. After limited action as a rookie, Freeman exploded onto the NFL scene this past season while tying for the league lead with 14 total touchdowns. He rushed for 1,056 yards on 265 carries with 11 rushing touchdowns.