Former Raiders All-Pro center Barret Robbins dies at 52

Robbins was known for leaving the team hotel before the Raiders' 2003 Super Bowl appearance.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:52am

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Barret Robbins, a former All-Pro center for the Oakland Raiders, has died at the age of 52. Robbins was largely known for leaving the Raiders' team hotel on the eve of their most recent Super Bowl appearance in 2003, an incident that overshadowed his successful NFL career.

Why it matters

Robbins' death at a relatively young age is a tragic loss for the Raiders organization and the NFL community. His story highlights the challenges that some professional athletes face with mental health issues, which can have significant impacts on their careers and personal lives.

The details

Robbins played for the Raiders from 1995 to 2002, making the Pro Bowl in 2002. However, he infamously went missing the day before the Raiders' Super Bowl appearance in 2003, which the team ultimately lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Robbins' disappearance was later attributed to his struggles with bipolar disorder.

  • Barret Robbins played for the Oakland Raiders from 1995 to 2002.
  • Robbins made the Pro Bowl in 2002.
  • Robbins went missing the day before the Raiders' Super Bowl appearance in 2003.

The players

Barret Robbins

A former All-Pro center who played for the Oakland Raiders from 1995 to 2002.

Tim Brown

A Hall of Fame wide receiver who was Robbins' teammate on the Raiders.

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The takeaway

Robbins' story highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues in professional sports and providing support for athletes who may be struggling. His untimely passing serves as a reminder of the challenges that some players face both on and off the field.