Braden Smith Returns to Colts Training Camp

Braden Smith is excited to be back at training camp with the Indianapolis Colts after a challenging 2024 NFL season, which was cut short due to his battle with obsessive-compulsive disorder. More specifically, he faced a form of OCD known as religious scrupulosity.

Smith’s journey towards recovery included extensive treatment and even led him to Mexico, where he explored the potential of psychedelics in seeking relief.

Eventually, he found a way to manage his condition more effectively and is now entering this new chapter of his NFL career feeling positive. “Honestly, I’m in an epic place,” Smith shared, reflecting on the lessons he learned about himself and the support he received from his family and team.

Smith recalled that through his experiences, especially with ibogaine therapy in Mexico, he began to overcome some of the negative mental patterns he had developed. At times of heightened anxiety, he felt compelled to pray and seek reassurance repeatedly.

While acknowledging that OCD is still part of his life, he noted that its impact is not as overwhelming as before. “There’s no box I need to check, nothing specific I have to adhere to,” Smith stated. “It’s not perfect, but it lets me focus on what matters.”

As a Christian, Smith is now navigating his faith with a balanced perspective, emphasizing love over guilt. “What’s healthy and unhealthy might look different for everyone,” he mentioned. “My relationship with God doesn’t need to fit a mold. It’s really about finding that genuine connection.”

At one point, Smith considered stepping away from football due to the magnitude of his struggles. He participated in 12 games in 2024 but often felt disconnected from his performance. “Last season, I was just there,” he reflected, acknowledging a lack of the competitive edge he usually possessed.

In addition to his mental battles, Smith faced a knee injury in 2023 that sidelined him for seven games and required surgery. Now, feeling both mentally and physically fit, he is looking forward to getting back on the field. “This is probably the best I’ve felt in a really long time,” he said. “It’s great to see everything aligning. I can finally just play football.”