Colts' Braden Smith says OCD battle nearly derailed NFL career, but faith journey helped reclaim football joy

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Braden Smith is happy to be back at Indianapolis Colts training camp. The offensive lineman's 2024 NFL campaign ended prematurely due to Smith's struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder.

More specifically, Smith contended with a specific type of the disorder known as religious scrupulosity. 

Smith embarked on an extensive search for relief, trying therapeutic and medicinal treatments along the way. His journey also took him to Mexico, where he sought out psychedelics.

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Indianapolis Colts offensive tackle Braden Smith warms up July 28, 2025, ahead of training camp held at Grand Park in Westfield. (Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar/USA Today Network via Imagn Images)

He did finally reach a point where he successfully took control of the OCD that previously controlled him. Smith says he entered the latest chapter of his NFL career in a good spot.

"I’m in a spectacular place, honestly," Smith told The Indianapolis Star. "I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’ve learned different tools and strategies. I’ve had a great support system here and at home."

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Smith pointed to ibogaine treatment he underwent in Mexico when he spoke about being able to erase many of the poor habits he created in his mind. When his OCD was at its peak, Smith would feel the need to pray, repent or declare his faith in a repetitive fashion.

Braden Smith of the Indianapolis Colts walks off the field after a win