Running back Noel Devine had all of the makings of a star. In high school, he was an internet phenom thanks to an unbelievable highlight tape. At West Virginia, Devine continued to show off his playmaking ability and hoped to finally reach his dream as a NFL star.

Unfortunately, it was all downhill for Devine. Questions about his size and character caused the back to go undrafted, but he signed a contract as an undrafted free agent with the Philadelphia Eagles. After four days, Devine just left the team without an explanation. That was it. He blew his chance and walked away from the NFL without ever giving an explanation.

It was reported by some that Devine left because of a failed drug test, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Devine was at an emotional low after losing a childhood friend. Someone who was like a brother to him. It was just the latest tragedy to find itself in the troubled youn man’s life.

“Psychologically I felt like I couldn’t focus how I needed to focus,” Devine said. “I just really needed time just to regroup and get myself together mentally, physically and spiritually.”

We haven’t heard much on the Devine front, but in February he worked out in Orlando, Florida and received a two-year contract with the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League. Devine is hoping to restore his name and make a comeback to the NFL. In the CFL, it is very likely that Devine could find success, since the field is 12-yards wider and will allow Devine to focus on his strengths of playmaking in the open field.

Devine recently opened up on his rough up-bringing and everything that led up to the day when he walked away from the NFL. He also speaks on the hopes of a future career in the NFL after showing that he can live up to the hype that has followed him since his high school days in Fort Meyers.

This is a story we can all learn from and appreciate. Devine is now hoping to rise above the trials that he has faced in his life and become what he has always hoped to be. Check out this inspirational and touching video on Devine’s story:

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