Marcus Smith on Faith, Mental Health, and Finding Purpose
How Marcus Smith is using his platform to promote mental health awareness and the role of faith in his healing journey.
February 1, 2025
For many athletes, life after football can be an uncertain and challenging transition. Former NFL linebacker Marcus Smith has turned that challenge into a mission—advocating for mental health awareness and using his platform to help others. On Faith on the Field, Marcus sat down with Rob Maaddi to share his personal struggles, the importance of faith in his journey, and his commitment to helping others navigate mental health challenges.
A New Calling After the NFL
After retiring from football, Marcus founded The Circle of M, an organization dedicated to addressing anxiety and depression, particularly among athletes and young people. “Faith and mental health go together,” Marcus said. “I had to have faith in God and the people around me to get the help I needed.” His work now involves traveling to panel discussions, speaking with Congress, and creating partnerships that promote mental health solutions.
Listen to the episode here:
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One of the biggest challenges Marcus highlights is the stigma surrounding vulnerability, especially in sports. He emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where men—particularly athletes—can express their struggles without fear of judgment.
The Struggles Behind the Spotlight
Despite being a first-round draft pick by the Philadelphia Eagles, Marcus struggled with confidence and performance. He felt the weight of expectations and battled internal doubts, which led to anxiety and depression. When he moved to Seattle, unresolved struggles compounded, leading to a breaking point. He recounted a moment when he almost ended his life, only to be stopped by the unexpected intervention of phone calls from his wife and mother-in-law.
That moment changed everything. Seeking help, Marcus found support within the Seahawks organization, including head coach Pete Carroll and the team’s therapists. Through professional counseling and faith, he was able to work through the pain that had built up over years.
Faith as a Foundation
Marcus now sees faith as an essential component of healing. “God brings people into your life to push you forward,” he shared. His journey has shown him the power of vulnerability, and he encourages others to seek help rather than suffer in silence.
Today, Marcus continues to advocate for mental health, sharing his testimony with young athletes, professionals, and policymakers. His story is a powerful reminder that healing is a journey—one that requires faith, support, and the courage to be open.