Kyle Long Disclosed Past Mental Health Struggles
The former Chicago Bears guard shared his experiences to support the Johnson & Johnson mental health campaign.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Football
Former Chicago Bears guard Kyle Long has opened up about his experiences with anxiety and depression during his NFL career. Long is now partnering with the Johnson & Johnson Generation Fine campaign to raise mental health awareness.
Why it matters
Long's transparency sheds light on the intense pressure, physical toll of injuries, and emotional stress athletes face when dealing with professional losses. By speaking out, he aims to destigmatize seeking professional medical support for mental health.
Kyle Long played as a guard for the Chicago Bears before transitioning into his current role as a studio analyst for CBS Sports' The NFL Today in 2026.
The players
Kyle Long
He is a former NFL guard for the Chicago Bears who now serves as a studio analyst for CBS Sports.
Johnson & Johnson
This multinational corporation is the sponsor of the Generation Fine campaign dedicated to mental health awareness.
Chicago Bears
This professional football team is based in Chicago and competes in the National Football League.
CBS Sports
This major sports broadcasting division produces the studio program The NFL Today.
The details
Long experienced a mental health crisis while on a team bus during the 2015-16 preseason. He navigated these challenges by seeking therapy and maintaining open communication with his support network to address his symptoms.
Timeline
Long faced a mental health crisis during the 2015-16 preseason.
Johnson & Johnson confirmed his history of depression in May 2026.
Long began his role at CBS Sports' The NFL Today in 2026.
Season Trajectory
Long's transition to a media role mirrors a growing trend of former players prioritizing mental health advocacy within the broader sports ecosystem. This public shift impacts how fans and organizations perceive the off-field challenges faced by professional athletes.
Long's advocacy highlights the importance of seeking professional support systems for those facing extreme stress. Readers can observe the increasing visibility of mental health resources within professional sports organizations.
The takeaway
Mental health struggles can impact even the highest-level professional athletes who face constant public scrutiny. Recognizing these challenges and seeking professional help is a vital step toward long-term recovery and personal well-being.
Further reading
For more on the league's off-field narratives, visit Chicago Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
