In recent years, former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas has had more of an impact on the lives of others than he ever did on the football field.  On Sunday, Lucas shared his own story of overcoming addiction at a YMCA Counseling Service brunch in Staten Island, New York.

Lucas was addicted to pain killers after a violent career in football left him with many problems.  To combat issues like post-concussion symptoms, he took in the neighborhood of 1,400 pills per month.

While Lucas even contemplated suicide, he reached out to P.A.S.T., a group that works with former athletes.  They helped him get spinal fusion surgery he needed and now he serves as a peer counselor for the organization.

Lucas gives many speeches educating and encouraging those dealing with and suffering from addiction.  He is also a member of the Facing Addiction Task Force that was created by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. 

In 2014, Lucas released the book “Under Pressure: How Playing Football Almost Cost Me Everything and Why’d I’d Do It All Again.”  His story was also chronicled in an Emmy nominated series, “Casualties of the Gridiron”. 

Lucas has gone onto a successful post-football career in broadcasting.  He is an analyst for the show “Jets Nation” on SportsNet New York and a radio commentator for his alma mater, Rutgers. 

During a seven-year NFL career, Lucas did have a few moments in the spotlight.  He stepped in for the New York Jets at quarterback during the 1999 and went 4-2 down the stretch.

Lucas also got the opportunity to start six games for the Miami Dolphins in 2002.  The Harrison, New Jersey native was elected to the Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame for his athletic achievements in 2008.  

To inquire about Ray Lucas' speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.

Episode One of GQ's Casualties of the Gridiron: