Indianapolis Colts right tackle Braden Smith manages OCD and religious scrupulosity. Last Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium, Smith experienced a moment related to the condition but told FOX59 that he did not allow it to affect his focus, stating, “I choose not to feed my OCD.”
Smith has undergone intensive therapy and treatments, including time at a facility in Colorado and a trip to Mexico involving psychedelic treatments. He stated to FOX59 that OCD “is still part of my life” and that the recent game presented some challenges. Smith used coping strategies to manage the condition and started his eighth game of the season, contributing to the Colts’ offensive performance against the Tennessee Titans, including not allowing a sack, as the team reached a 7-1 record.
Smith has described in an interview with WTHR that managing his mental health has helped him in his roles as a husband, father, and teammate. He approaches each day as part of the process, both personally and professionally. The supportive environment in the Colts locker room aligns with the franchise’s “Kicking The Stigma” campaign.
With Smith approaching free agency at the end of the season, he has focused on the present rather than future uncertainties. He shared with the Seattle PI that this approach has helped him personally and supported his performance on the field, where he continues to protect his quarterback and contribute to the NFL’s leading rusher, despite challenges related to his condition.
