In a league where toughness is prized above all else, one NFL star is redefining what it means to be strong. New York Jets linebacker Solomon Thomas has emerged as a powerful advocate for mental health, using his platform and personal story to break down stigmas and encourage others to seek help.
A Journey Born from Tragedy
Thomas’s mission began in the wake of devastating loss. In 2018, just days after his rookie season with the San Francisco 49ers ended, his older sister Ella died by suicide at age 24. The grief nearly consumed him, but it also ignited a spark.
I was very fortunate to have good support from the Niners. They helped me and my family out at that time and got me into therapy which really kind of saved my life.
Solomon Thomas
Through therapy, Thomas began to heal and discovered a new purpose: ensuring others have access to the mental health resources that were so crucial for him.
Building The Defensive Line
In 2021, Thomas and his parents Martha and Chris launched The Defensive Line, a charity dedicated to promoting mental wellness. The organization provides education and resources to schools, sports teams, and workplaces.
“We’re teaching any mentor how to have a crisis action plan,” Thomas explains. “If your loved ones, your co-workers, teammates, students get to a point, you know how to handle it, how to create a safe mental health environment.”
Changing the Game in the NFL
Thomas has witnessed firsthand the NFL’s evolution in prioritizing player mental health. While he’s grateful for the support he received, he recognizes there’s still work to be done.
- Increasing access to mental health professionals
- Providing resources for players and families
- Fostering an environment of open communication
He emphasizes the importance of helping players build an identity outside of football and plan for the transition to life after the game.
Players need to ask ‘what interests me outside the game, what gives me a drive, what motivates me, and gives me that same feeling outside of this?’ Finding that is huge.
Solomon Thomas
A Beacon of Hope
As he continues to excel on the field—Thomas is coming off a strong season with the Jets—he’s making an even bigger impact off it. The Defensive Line recently won a prestigious Humanitarian Award, with Thomas’s proud parents sharing the stage with President Biden and Prince Harry.
For Thomas, this is just the beginning. He envisions a future where mental health is prioritized in every locker room, office, and classroom. And he’ll keep suiting up—both in his Jets uniform and as a champion for change—until that dream becomes reality.
I’m excited for my career after this, whatever that is. I’ll forever speak the truth about mental health and encourage others – that will never die.
Solomon Thomas
In a world that often tells us to mask our pain, Solomon Thomas reminds us that vulnerability is a virtue. That seeking help is a sign of strength. And that even in our darkest moments, hope shines through.
