OCD Can’t Hold Back NFL Kicker
Washington Commanders kicker Brian Gonzalez has learned to live with his Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), but it still has an impact on his daily life. Despite this, Gonzalez has found ways to manage his symptoms and focus on his football career.
Gonzalez, a 29-year-old kicker who has bounced around the league since being drafted in 2017, has recently found success with the Commanders. He joined the team in November and has been the main kicker since Week 10, going 8 for 10 on field goals and 21 for 21 on PATs, including playoffs.
On Sunday night, Gonzalez faced the biggest kick of his career, a 37-yarder that could have ended a 19-year streak of playoff futility for the Commanders. The kick was a thrilling moment, with the ball clanging off the upright and through the goalposts. Gonzalez later joked that the “doink” sound that followed was unwelcome, but he felt confident about the kick.
Gonzalez’s success is a testament to his ability to manage his OCD and focus on his football career. As the Commanders face off against the Detroit Lions in the Divisional Round, Gonzalez is likely to play a key role in the game. With his confidence and skills, the Commanders are hoping to pull off an upset and advance further in the playoffs.
