ASHBURN, Va. (AP) — Zane Gonzalez, a kicker for the Washington Commanders, captured the attention of a national television audience as he adjusted his socks and fixed his hair on the sideline before kicking the winning field goal in an NFL playoff game. Behind these actions lies Gonzalez’s lifelong battle with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a struggle that has shaped his journey from childhood to the professional football stage.
Gonzalez’s OCD manifests in various ways, including his meticulous pre-kick routines and the internal battles he faces with recurring thoughts and fears. Despite the challenges, the 29-year-old kicker has learned to manage his condition and gain confidence in high-pressure moments like the playoff victory over Tampa Bay.
Reflecting on his experiences, Gonzalez emphasized the mental toll of OCD, highlighting the constant need to combat irrational fears and anxieties. His wife, Lizzy, defended him against online criticism by sharing their story on social media, sparking a larger conversation about mental health in sports.
Teammates like long snapper Tyler Ott and punter/holder Tress Way have shown support for Gonzalez, acknowledging his struggles while also celebrating his success on the field. Coach Dan Quinn praised Gonzalez’s courage in opening up about his OCD, recognizing the opportunity to raise awareness and provide support to others facing similar challenges.
As Gonzalez continues his football career with the Commanders, he hopes to inspire others by sharing his story and showing that mental health struggles do not define a person’s abilities or potential.
Washington Commanders kicker, Brian Gonzalez, has formed a strong partnership with his teammate, Tyler Way, who has praised Gonzalez for being remarkably low-maintenance. Way expressed his enjoyment in playing alongside Gonzalez, highlighting the kicker’s trust in their team to prepare for games efficiently. The Commanders have seen their fair share of kicker changes this season, with Gonzalez being the fourth kicker to join the team and the seventh since the spring. Despite his journey through multiple organizations, Gonzalez has made a significant impact, converting five out of seven field-goal attempts and maintaining a perfect record on extra points during the regular season. His flawless performance in the wild-card round against the Buccaneers further solidified his value to the team.
Special teams coordinator, Larry Izzo, commended Gonzalez for stabilizing the kicker position amidst the frequent turnovers. Izzo expressed the team’s satisfaction with Gonzalez’s consistent performance and his dedication to fulfilling his role effectively. Gonzalez, who has openly shared his struggles with OCD and sought therapy to manage it, appreciates the opportunity to raise awareness about mental health issues. He aims to make a positive impact both on and off the field by discussing his experiences and advocating for mental health support within the community. Gonzalez acknowledges the prevalence of personal battles that individuals face behind closed doors and finds solace in the community’s support and understanding.
Gonzalez’s resilience and commitment to overcoming challenges have resonated with his teammates and the wider community. His willingness to address mental health issues openly has garnered admiration and support from those around him. As he continues to excel in his role as the Commanders’ kicker, Gonzalez remains focused on contributing positively to the team and inspiring others to confront their struggles with courage and determination.
