In professional sports, background stories can reveal a lot about an athlete’s journey. Especially when it comes to the challenges they’ve overcome. Audric Estimé, the rookie running back for the Denver Broncos, is no exception. His path has been a rollercoaster of love, loss, and the kind of family support that fuels a fire within.

And his life story? It unfolds in a way that’s both inspiring and heartwarming!

Who was Audric Estimé’s mom?

Bertha Noisette, Audric Estimé’s mother, was the driving force behind his love for football. As a single mom and hard-working registered nurse, Bertha introduced her son to the sport at just four years old. All by signing him up for youth football and igniting a passion that would carry him through tough times. As a huge football fan herself, she always cheered him on with unshakeable support. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Bertha passed away in 2013 due to sickle cell disease, leaving Audric at just 10 years old. That loss was a gut punch, but her legacy is something he carries with him every time he hits the field.

To keep her memory alive, Estimé does things that connect him to her. He has a tattoo of her birthday in Roman numerals on his arm, always taking a knee to speak to her before each game. “Man, I know she’s just looking down on me, smiling.” Her teachings about hard work resonate with him. Estimé reflects, “All the hard work I put in, she laid the foundation.”

Bertha’s influence extended beyond just supporting his football dreams. She instilled vital values like perseverance and grit. Estimé often talks about how his mom would fight to attend his games even while she was sick. “She was in the hospital on Friday and found some will to make it to my game on Saturday,” he recalls, illustrating the kind of inspiration that keeps him motivated today. For him, it’s about pushing through and giving 100%—a lesson he learned from her.

Who raised the Broncos’ RB?

After Bertha’s passing, Estimé and his older brother, Khadar, found comfort in the love of their guardians. Aunt Marise Fede and Uncle Garick Noisette. After all, they selflessly stepped up as their legal guardians. This transition was crucial for both boys, providing a stable and nurturing home amidst their grief. They created a supportive and loving environment for the brothers. So that they knew they had someone to rely on during such a tough time. Family matters! And they stayed around Estimé, giving him the determination to keep moving forward.

And that’s not all! Other than his guardians, Estimé also had the support of his cousin, Terrence Fede. Yes, the former NFL player and his godfather! Terrence was like a mentor who helped shape Estimé’s aspirations as a football player. From hitting the gym to sharing insights about the game, you name it. Because Terrence was always there! Audric remembers those early workout sessions fondly. “He’s been in my corner every step of the way.”

Terrence Fede didn’t just help with football skills. He also guided Estimé through some important life choices. When it came time to pick a college, Estimé ended up choosing Notre Dame. All thanks to Terrence for encouraging him to choose a school that provides the best personal and athletic growth. And best part? He never missed a game! Always focusing on proper technique and giving Audric pointers from the stands. “Even though you weren’t supposed to (look at your phone), he would tell me things that he saw from a different angle.” 

The Broncos RB’s journey to the NFL is much more than just athletic talent. It’s a beautiful story of non-stop resilience and family love. With Bertha Noisette’s influence and the steadfast support from Marise, Garick, and Terrence, Estimé stands on the brink of his dreams. And ready to show the world what he’s truly capable of!

While Estime’s jounrey is surely inspiring, you can get more NFL insight from our latest Think Tank episode with Emily and Erin Griffin!