He is a good man

So often, when athletes die, the public learns all of the good things about their lives. Sadly, this information comes at a time when we are unable to use it and fully appreciate them as human beings. Before death, an athlete may be known as a reclusive, angry felon. After death, that same man is transformed into a misunderstood, compassionate saint. Should someone really be better off dead? We say "no."

At Flotsam, we want to stop this from happening. So we've decided to profile a current athlete who is alive, so you can further understand him and know who he is. Appreciate this man while you still can. Some day down the dusty road of life, he will die.

Cooper Carlisle is turning a corner.

At age 30, the 8th-year offensive lineman for the Oakland Raiders has his life in order. He lives with his wife, Suzy, in Florida and he has a beautiful daughter, Anna Kate, who just turned 2 years old. She likes the Wiggles.

In an unexpected moment for a man who is 6-foot-5 and nearly 300 pounds, Cooper last week watched the Wiggles with his daughter. He bounced her on his knee as she smiled and enjoyed the show. Cooper talked to her about the shapes and colors on screen. He even hummed along to the familiar tunes.

"He's a truly great man," says Raiders teammate Jeremy Newberry. "He's an amazing teammate, husband and father. I admire him a lot."

Just last week, Cooper met Suzy in the tunnel following a win over the Kansas City Chiefs. He kissed her on the cheek and told her that he loved her. She smiled and told him she loved him, too. She told him he played a good game.

And he did play a good game. A good game, indeed.

This is what life should have been like for Cooper Carlisle. In fact, this is what life is like for Cooper Carlisle.

The devoted family man and active community member is enjoying a fine season with the Raiders, being part of the team's improved rushing attack. He had played for years with the Denver Broncos after being drafted in 2000, out of the University of Florida. His previous seasons had been pretty similar to this one.

Former coach Mike Shanahan understands Carlisle's dedication to football.

"This is a guy who showed up to practice every day," he said. "He did drills. He played in games. He blocked defensive linemen. These are the things that he did, and I acknowledge that they happened."

It's not just football people who know of Carlisle. Community members also remember him.

"I remember Cooper very well," said Ashleigh Putnam, a waitress at an Oakland-area Applebee's. "He came in here with his wife and ordered a chicken sandwich, some onion rings, and a Pepsi. He tipped me almost 25 percent. He was very friendly, and a good customer. It was nice to see him stop by my section."

Incidents like this are not isolated, say those around Carlisle. Despite his quiet demeanor, people have taken notice of his behavior and kindness toward others.

"I remember, like, just last week we had to stop by a gas station before heading out after practice," said teammate Stuart Schweigert. "He filled up with gas and then made eye contact with the attendant as he paid. No complaints or anything. He's just a really friendly guy."

Next time you see Carlisle pancake a defensive tackle and Justin Fargas slip by for a 15-yard gain, appreciate what he does. Notice his stout frame and solid technique. Notice his jovial demeanor and quick smile. Notice that time this week when he opened the door for a woman with an armful of shopping bags. Notice these things. And remember them.

They won't last forever.