Brian Dawkins felt empowered speaking about his fight with depression and suicidal thoughts during his Hall of Fame speech in August.
During his 22-minute speech at the Pro Football Hall of Fame ceremony on August 4th, defensive back Brian Dawkins spent a portion of that time talking about his battles with depression and suicidal thoughts during his NFL career. A courageous topic to talk about in front of an audience of that size, Dawkins felt comfortable speaking on it.
“That is where I am spiritually, it’s something that I’ve overcome and that I have shared with others to help them in their walks,” Dawkins said. “The way I see it, it’s no different from having a conversation with one person if you’re having it with 30,000. It’s still a conversation that someone needs to hear.”
Dawkins’ sentiments not only were a way for him to share his experience, but to also use his platform to help those who are going through the same thing, and give them the strength and power to push through.
While some retired NFL players struggle to figure out what they’re next act is going to be, Dawkins uses the fire he had as an NFL player to push him in figuring out what that next step is. Previously spending two years as an executive for the Philadelphia Eagles and an analyst on ESPN, Dawkins is always striving for more.
“There has always been a constant voice inside of me telling me not to settle,” Dawkins said. “I’ve always been that way as a player, so life after football is no different. I’m always listening to that voice of not getting stagnant, so I’m always trying to constantly grow.”
Next on the list for the 9-time Pro Bowler is starting his own non-profit organization aimed at helping those in his hometown and surrounding era of Jacksonville, Florida.
Dawkins wants to give back to his community by supplying grants and resources to those in need, not only in Florida but in other places he’s spent time. A couple places that come to mind are Philadelphia, where he spent 13 years with the Eagles, and his alma mater Clemson.
Dawkins is also partnering with Verizon, and their new rewards program, VerizonUp, where customers can enter to win VIP fan experiences. VerizonUp offers concert tickets, meet and greets with athletes, including Dawkins himself, and even a chance to play flag football with former NFL quarterback Randall Cunningham. Verizon customers also have the ability to stream live NFL games all season long.
“I’ve been blessed to partner up with them to help fans get a better understanding of what they can accomplish when you join Verizon,” Dawkins said.
Breakdown of Brian Dawkins interview
[1:16] Dawkins on Hall of Fame speech
[3:45] Dawkins on post-NFL life
[9:35] Dawkins on Colin Kaepernick and Nike ad
[10:18] Dawkins on players protesting