Former All-Pro center Barret Robbins, known for his time with the Oakland Raiders, has passed away at 52. The team confirmed the sad news on Friday.
Tim Brown, a Hall of Fame wide receiver and Robbins’ former teammate, shared the news on social media. He mentioned that Robbins died peacefully in his sleep. However, the cause of death hasn’t been disclosed.
In their statement, the Raiders expressed their condolences, saying, “The thoughts and condolences of the entire Raider Nation are with Barret’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Robbins was drafted in the second round in 1995 and spent all nine seasons of his career with the Raiders. He earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2002, one of the highlights of his career.
Brown reflected on Robbins’ life, urging fans to pray for his family and mentioning the many teammates who will feel this loss. He noted the impact of Robbins’ absence during the Super Bowl against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Robbins struggled with depression and was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
In a troubling turn of events leading up to that Super Bowl in 2003, Robbins didn’t take his medication. He left the team hotel, crossed into Tijuana, and then returned. Coach Bill Callahan ultimately suspended him from the game, which resulted in a heavy loss for the Raiders, ending 48-21.
Rich Gannon, a former Raiders quarterback, shared his grief online, saying, “Sad to hear of the passing of my center and former teammate Barret Robbins. RIP my brother!”
This highlights not just a personal loss but also brings attention to mental health issues in sports. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that approximately one in five adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year. It’s a reminder that even those in high-pressure roles like sports can face unseen battles.
Robbins’ legacy will be remembered both for his athletic achievements and the challenges he faced. As the conversation around mental health in sports continues to grow, Robbins’ story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of support and understanding.
Source link
Las Vegas Raiders,no-minute,news,sensitive-content,Associated Press
