Former Raiders Star Barret Robbins Dies at 52

Teammate Tim Brown reveals Robbins passed away peacefully in his sleep.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 3:33pm

Barret Robbins, a former All-Pro center for the Oakland Raiders, has died at the age of 52. His former teammate Tim Brown shared the news, saying Robbins' wife Marissa informed him that Robbins passed away overnight in his sleep. Robbins had a storied NFL career, making the Pro Bowl and being named a first-team All-Pro in 2002, but his life was forever changed after a controversial incident before Super Bowl XXXVII when he went missing the day before the game.

Why it matters

Robbins' death is a tragic loss for the Raiders organization and the NFL community. He was a talented player who overcame mental health challenges, and his story highlights the ongoing need to prioritize player wellness and support systems, especially for those dealing with depression and other issues.

The details

Barret Robbins was an offensive lineman who played for the Raiders from 1995 to 2003. His best season came in 2002 when he made the Pro Bowl and was named a first-team All-Pro. However, Robbins' career and life were derailed the day before Super Bowl XXXVII in 2003 when he went missing, reportedly after not taking his depression medication. He was suspended from the game, which the Raiders ended up losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

  • Robbins played for the Raiders from 1995 to 2003.
  • His best season was in 2002 when he made the Pro Bowl and was named a first-team All-Pro.
  • The controversial incident happened the day before Super Bowl XXXVII in 2003.

The players

Barret Robbins

A former All-Pro center who played for the Oakland Raiders from 1995 to 2003, with his best season coming in 2002 when he made the Pro Bowl and was named a first-team All-Pro.

Tim Brown

A former Raiders wide receiver who played alongside Robbins from 1998 to 2003, and revealed the news of Robbins' passing.

Marissa Robbins

Barret Robbins' wife, who informed Tim Brown of Robbins' passing.

Bill Callahan

The Raiders' head coach in 2003 who suspended Robbins from playing in Super Bowl XXXVII due to his mental health issues.

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What they’re saying

“Thankfully, he passed peacefully in his sleep.”

— Tim Brown, Former Raiders Teammate

“It's unfortunate that his life was never the same after he was not allowed to play in the Super Bowl!”

— Tim Brown, Former Raiders Teammate

The takeaway

Barret Robbins' tragic passing at the age of 52 is a somber reminder of the ongoing mental health challenges faced by many professional athletes. His story underscores the need for greater support systems and resources to help players navigate these issues and find long-term wellness and fulfillment after their playing careers end.