Eagles Star AJ Brown Reveals 2020 Struggle With Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, Credits Elijah Moore for Helping Save His Life

Philadelphia Eagles star wide receiver AJ Brown is known across the NFL for his physical dominance, explosive playmaking, and relentless drive. But behind the accolades and touchdown celebrations lies a story far more human—and far more powerful. Brown recently shared that during the 2020 NFL season, while playing for the Tennessee Titans, he nearly took his own life.

In a stunningly honest revelation, Brown detailed his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts, describing how he had reached such a low point that he was prepared to end his life. What stopped him? A timely, life-changing call from one of his closest friends—college teammate and fellow NFL wide receiver Elijah Moore.

“I Didn’t Want to Be Here Anymore”

The 2020 season was challenging for players across the NFL. The COVID-19 pandemic altered schedules, separated families, and forced athletes into physical and emotional isolation. For AJ Brown, who had just come off a strong rookie season and was emerging as a star for the Titans, those challenges compounded with internal pain and personal struggles he kept hidden from most.

“I was at my lowest,” Brown said in a video posted to social media. “I didn’t want to be here anymore. I had everything planned out. But God had other plans.”

Brown explained that he had been dealing with unresolved issues, stress, and emotional exhaustion. Despite his outward success on the field, he felt empty inside, and the pressures of being a young star in the NFL only amplified those feelings.

“I wore a smile, but it was fake,” he said. “I went to practice, I played games, but when I got home—I was hurting. I felt alone, even though people were around me.”

Elijah Moore: A Friend Who Showed Up at the Right Time

In the middle of this storm, Brown received a phone call from Elijah Moore, his former teammate at Ole Miss and one of his closest friends. Moore, now with the Cleveland Browns, had no idea that Brown was on the verge of making a fatal decision. But his instinct to reach out—at just the right moment—made all the difference.

“Elijah didn’t know what I was going through,” Brown said. “He just called to check in. That call saved my life.”

Moore listened, offered support, and encouraged Brown to talk about what he was feeling. That moment of connection broke through Brown’s darkness and ultimately led him to seek help, confront his mental health struggles, and begin the journey toward healing.

“It’s crazy how one small act of kindness can change someone’s whole life,” Brown said. “I’ll always be thankful for that call.”

Using His Platform to Speak Out

Brown’s decision to speak publicly about his struggles was not made lightly. As a high-profile NFL player, he knew his words would resonate. But he also understood the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among men—and especially among professional athletes.

“I want people to know it’s okay to not be okay,” Brown said. “We all go through things, but we don’t have to go through them alone. Talk to somebody. Don’t carry that weight by yourself.”

By sharing his story, Brown hopes to inspire others who are suffering in silence to seek help and speak up. His message has already begun making waves across the NFL and beyond.

Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni praised Brown’s courage: “AJ is a warrior on the field, but this—this is real strength. He’s helping people in a way that goes far beyond football.”

Mental Health in the NFL: A Growing Conversation

Brown’s revelation adds to a growing chorus of NFL players who are speaking openly about mental health. Stars like Dak Prescott, Brandon Marshall, and Calvin Ridley have all shared their personal battles in recent years, helping to break down barriers and normalize conversations around anxiety, depression, and trauma.

In response, the NFL has expanded its mental health resources. Every team is now required to have a licensed mental health professional on staff, and players are encouraged to take advantage of therapy, counseling, and other wellness programs.

Still, the stigma remains, especially in a culture that often equates toughness with silence.

Brown’s story is a powerful reminder that real toughness isn’t hiding your pain—it’s confronting it head-on.

From Darkness to Light: A New Perspective

Since that difficult period in 2020, AJ Brown has not only continued his football success—he’s flourished. Traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022, Brown quickly became a fan favorite, helping the team reach Super Bowl LVII and becoming a go-to target for quarterback Jalen Hurts.

His performance on the field has remained elite, but more importantly, Brown says he now lives with a renewed sense of purpose and perspective.

“I’m grateful,” he said. “Grateful for my daughter, for my family, for my teammates, and for being here today.”

Brown also credits therapy, his faith, and the support system around him for helping him navigate the ups and downs of life in the spotlight.

He’s now using his platform to advocate for mental health awareness, especially in underserved communities where conversations about mental health are still considered taboo.

“If my story can help one person speak up or stay alive, then it’s worth it,” Brown said. “That’s bigger than football.”

A Message to the Youth

Brown’s story has also struck a chord with young fans and aspiring athletes. As someone who rose from humble beginnings in Starkville, Mississippi, to NFL stardom, Brown knows the pressure that comes with chasing success—and the hidden toll it can take.

To teenagers and young adults battling depression, Brown offers a simple but powerful message: “You matter. Don’t give up. There is light at the end of the tunnel.”

He continues to partner with youth organizations, speak at schools, and lend his voice to mental health campaigns. His goal is to make sure no one feels as alone as he once did.

“Elijah called me at the right time,” Brown said. “But not everyone has that moment. So be that person for someone else. Make the call. Check on your friends. You never know what someone’s going through.”

AJ Brown’s journey is not just a football story—it’s a human story. It’s a reminder that success doesn’t shield anyone from pain, and that even those who seem strong on the outside may be hurting on the inside.

His courage to share his truth has already impacted countless lives and will continue to do so as he uses his voice to fight the stigma surrounding mental health.

In the end, Brown’s biggest victory might not be a touchdown or a championship—it’s the decision to stay, to heal, and to help others do the same.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. In the United States, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, 24/7 confidential support. You are not alone.