The Defensive Line

Here’s your chance to score big and give back! Register NOW for Goal Line Giving, our first ever virtual auction, and support our mission to end the crisis of youth suicide. Bid on exclusive items and unforgettable experiences starting September 1st! Register for FREE via the link in the comments to preview items and purchase raffle tickets before the bidding kicks off! Every bid makes an impact- let’s tackle this cause together! Link in comments.💙🏈

Chris and Martha were the keynote speakers for the sold out 2024 Florida Behavioral Health Conference. The goals of BHCon2024 were "to empower attendees to reignite their passion for helping and serving those most in need, reenergize their creativity, and reimagine the future of behavioral health." Thank you to the organizers and attendees of BHCon2024 for your commitment to mental health care and substance use needs, and thank you for including The Defensive Line in this powerful event. Photos by @cameradave

Today we celebrate not just an amazing athlete, but a truly inspiring human being. From dominating on the field to making a difference off it, Solomon, your strength, resilience, and heart know no bounds. Here's to another year of greatness, both in football and in life. Wishing you all the happiness, success, and love in the world! @sollythomas90 #HappyBirthdaySolly @hrsmithphoto

Olympian Chiaka Ogbogu is joining the D-Line and championing mental health awareness with us! 🥇🇺🇸 “I’m grateful for the work the Thomas family and The Defensive Line has done in the mental health space. Their work has inspired me to take a deeper dive into my mental health routine heading into the Olympic Games. These games I felt the most in tune with my mind and spirit that I’ve ever been while competing. I also realized the importance of community while focusing on improving my mental health. I learned I’m never alone in this journey and that so many people out there are ready to cheer you on as you navigate life!” We’re honored to have Chiaka as one of our D-Line Champions breaking the stigma around mental health! 💙

Ammir shared TDL resources with first responders at the Raiders Practice Facility for the recent First Responders Mental Health Day in Las Vegas. Raider Rusher even stopped by to say hello!

Some days just feel like a lot. Let's all just pause, take a deep breath, and meditate for a moment.

Ella! She is why we do the work we do. The Defensive Line is a labor of love - we stand here in honor of Ella and all the others who have lost loved ones to suicide.

Ammir Aziz, Regional Program Director for The Defensive Line, was invited to Durango H.S. in Las Vegas for the school year's "Athletics Kick Off." Ammir provided insight into his struggles with homelessness while a student at Durango H.S., and he discussed the career path he is on now. During the discussion, the importance of educators and their significant impact on the lives of students was emphasized. Ammir spoke about the signs of mental stress in students and discussed plans of action to make sure students receive the help and support that they need.

In powerful partnership, The Defensive Line joined hundreds of AFSP volunteer advocates in Washington DC in support of stronger mental health policies. The work of these volunteers aims to bring attention to the critical need for comprehensive mental health resources and policies, particularly those that support youth and underserved communities. @afspnational

Life is not just a social media highlight reel, and that is beautiful. #JointheDLine #TDL #TheDefensiveLine