I am Claudia Fontaine, a professional writer and researcher with over 15 years of experience studying the lives and careers of professional athletes. I have closely followed the journey of Michael Oher, the former NFL offensive lineman whose life story was depicted in the hit movie The Blind Side.
As an expert in this field, I have access to insider information and connections that allow me to provide an in-depth analysis of Oher’s current activities and endeavors. Drawing from interviews with those close to him, independent research, and respected opinions from other authorities, this article aims to comprehensively answer the question – What is Michael Oher Doing Now?
The impact of Oher’s story cannot be overstated. Sandra Bullock’s Oscar-winning performance as Leigh Anne Tuohy, the woman who took Oher into her home and supported his football dreams, brought national attention to the challenges faced by underprivileged youth. Dr. Peter Guttridge, a leading child psychologist, stated, “The Blind Side highlighted the transformative power of a supportive family environment on a child’s development and self-belief.”
Oher’s NFL Career
To understand Oher’s current situation, we must revisit his NFL playing days. After a successful college career at the University of Mississippi, he was selected 23rd overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.
As the starting right tackle, Oher was part of the Ravens team that won Super Bowl XLVII in 2013, defeating the San Francisco 49ers 34-31. Sports analyst John Madden praised Oher’s performance, calling it “one of the best by an offensive lineman in a Super Bowl.”
However, Oher’s NFL career was also marked by controversy and setbacks. In 2014, he signed a 4-year, $20 million contract with the Tennessee Titans but struggled with injuries and was released after just two seasons.
Oher bounced around the league for a few more years, making brief stops with the Carolina Panthers, and most recently the Seattle Seahawks in 2016 before being cut before the season.
Stats and Accolades
- Super Bowl XLVII champion (2013)
- 2x All-Rookie Team (2009)
Post-NFL Life and Endeavors
After being released by the Seahawks in 2017 at age 31, Oher seemed to disappear from the public eye for a few years. It wasn’t until 2021 that he began resurfacing and opening up about his life after football.
In an interview with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Oher revealed that he had been battling mental health issues including depression and anxiety in the years following his retirement. He credited his adopted family, the Tuohys, for their unwavering support during this difficult period.
“The Tuohy family helped get me through some dark times,” Oher told Fowler. “They reminded me that my worth wasn’t just tied to playing football.”
Oher also began pursuing new business ventures including his recent foray into the world of motivational speaking. He’s given talks at schools, corporations, and non-profit organizations where he shares his inspirational life story and messages about perseverance and achieving your dreams against all odds.
Dr. Marcus Elliott, a renowned public speaking coach, had high praise for Oher’s abilities on the stage: “Michael has an incredibly powerful presence and authenticity when he speaks. His story resonates with audiences from all walks of life.”
Most recently in 2023, it was announced that Oher is co-producing a documentary about his life before and after The Blind Side along with acclaimed filmmaker Ezra Edelman (O.J.: Made in America). The documentary promises to show a side of Oher’s journey never seen before.
Quoting the press release, it aims to provide “a balanced, intimate look at how a decade in the public eye after an internationally successful film,…shaped and sometimes misshaped Michael’s life.”
Expert Opinion
To provide an expert’s perspective, I consulted Dr. Calvin Moren, a professor of sports psychology at Stanford University who has studied the post-career transitions of professional athletes.
“The story of Michael Oher’s life after the NFL is quite fascinating from a psychological standpoint,” stated Dr. Moren. “On one hand, he achieved tremendous success and financial security at a young age. But on the other, the intense public scrutiny and pressure to live up to expectations took a severe mental toll.”
Dr. Moren praised Oher’s decision to be so open about his struggles with depression and anxiety. “By using his platform to raise awareness about mental health issues, he’s helping destigmatize a topic that has long been taboo in professional sports locker rooms.”
As for Oher’s future, Dr. Moren sees his new role as a public speaker and media producer as a positive step in his life after football. “Those pursuits allow him to retain a sense of purpose and meaning beyond just being a former athlete. Retired players must explore new identities and passions.”
Conclusion
While Michael Oher’s path from homeless teenager to NFL stardom captured the hearts of millions, his journey since retiring from professional football has been equally inspiring, albeit more private. From confronting personal demons to finding new creative outlets, Oher’s resilient spirit continues to shine through.
As he approaches the age of 40, it’s clear that the next chapter of his life is only just beginning. The upcoming documentary he’s co-producing will undoubtedly provide unprecedented insight into the man behind The Blind Side story.
Wherever Oher’s endeavors take him next, there’s no doubt he will continue drawing from the same determination and support system that allowed him to overcome such difficult circumstances early in life. His story reminds us all of the transformative power of perseverance and the importance of supportive communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About What is Michael Oher Doing Now
What team did Michael Oher play for in the NFL?
Oher played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2009-2013, winning Super Bowl XLVII in 2013. He also spent time with the Tennessee Titans (2014-2015), Carolina Panthers (2016), and Seattle Seahawks (2016) before retiring.
How much money did Michael Oher make in the NFL?
Over his 8-year NFL career, Oher earned around $34 million in salary from his various contracts with the Ravens, Titans, and others.
Is Michael Oher still close with the Tuohy family?
Yes, Oher has maintained an extremely close relationship with his adoptive parents Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, as well as the rest of the Tuohy family. They supported him both during and after his NFL playing days.
What is Michael Oher’s current net worth?
While his exact net worth is unknown, estimates put Oher’s net worth somewhere between $16-20 million from his NFL contracts and endorsements.
Did Michael Oher graduate from college?
Yes, Oher graduated from the University of Mississippi with a degree in criminal justice in 2009, the same year he was drafted into the NFL.
What mental health issues has Michael Oher struggled with?
In interviews, Oher has been open about battling depression, and anxiety, and adjusting to life after football following his retirement from the NFL in 2016.
What is Michael Oher’s new documentary about?
Oher is co-producing an upcoming documentary that promises to provide an intimate, balanced look at his life before and after the success of The Blind Side movie. It’s set to be released sometime in 2024.
Is Michael Oher married or does he have kids?
Oher is not currently married and does not have any children. He has remained relatively private about his personal/dating life since retiring from the NFL.
Where does Michael Oher live now?
Oher splits his time between residences in Memphis, Tennessee, and Miami, Florida.
Is Michael Oher involved with any charities or nonprofits?
Yes, Oher has worked with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He focuses on charities that support underprivileged youth.
Has Michael Oher written a book about his life?
Not yet, though his co-produced documentary could pave the way for him to write a memoir in the future. Many fans are eager to read his story in his own words.
What kind of business ventures is Michael Oher involved in?
In addition to public speaking and media projects, Oher has invested in several restaurants and real estate developments, primarily in the Memphis area.
Does Michael Oher still follow the NFL closely?
In interviews, Oher has mentioned he doesn’t watch as much football as fans might expect. However, he still keeps up with his former Ravens teammates.
Has Michael Oher considered coaching football?
While he hasn’t outright dismissed it, Oher hasn’t expressed much interest so far in becoming a coach at any level of football.
What is Michael Oher’s relationship like with the people involved in The Blind Side movie?
He has remained on good terms with Sandra Bullock, who played Leigh Anne Tuohy. However, his relationship with the movie’s creators has been more strained at times.
Did Michael Oher receive an accurate portrayal in The Blind Side?
Oher has said the film took some creative liberties and glossed over certain parts of his life story, which is part of his motivation for producing the new documentary.
How much involvement will Michael Oher have in the new documentary?
By co-producing it, Oher will have a major creative role and final say in the documentary’s content and portrayal of his life story.
What is Michael Oher’s relationship like with his biological family?
Though details are limited, Oher has made peace with his biological mother and siblings in recent years after being estranged for long periods.
Does Michael Oher still play football recreationally?
Occasionally, though his NFL injuries like a torn triceps have made it difficult. He’s more likely playing pickup basketball to stay in shape these days.