Braden Smith Bio
Braden Smith is an American professional football offensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). Born on March 25, 1996, in Olathe, Kansas, he played college football for the Auburn Tigers. Smith was selected by the Colts in the second round of the 2018 NFL draft and has been recognized for his exceptional performance on the field, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2018.
Early Life and Background
A native of Olathe, Kansas, Braden Smith attended Olathe South High School, where he was a two-way lineman on the football varsity. In his senior season, Smith was credited with 82 pancake blocks on offense and 59 tackles on defense. Regarded as a four-star recruit by ESPN, he was ranked as the No. 9 offensive guard prospect in the class of 2014. He received offers from several prestigious programs, including Alabama, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Notre Dame, ultimately committing to Auburn University on May 27, 2014.
Path to American Football
Braden Smith played as a freshman at Auburn, participating in 12 games. In his sophomore season, he played right guard and earned Second-team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) honors. Smith received All-America honors in both 2016 and 2017 and was awarded the Jacobs Blocking Trophy for the best blocker in the SEC in 2017. He concluded his collegiate career with 41 starts over four seasons, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
Braden Smith Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
Braden Smith was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round, 37th overall, of the 2018 NFL draft. He made an immediate impact by being named the starting right tackle in Week 5 of his rookie season, starting the final 12 games and both playoff games. His performance earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team, highlighting his successful entry into the professional ranks.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
On July 28, 2021, Braden Smith signed a four-year contract extension with the Colts worth $72.4 million, solidifying his position as a key player on the team. He started all 13 appearances for Indianapolis during the 2025 season. However, on December 13, 2025, Smith was placed on injured reserve due to a concussion and neck injury sustained in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Notable Works and Milestones
Braden Smith’s signature work includes his consistent performance as a starting offensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts. His accolades include being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2018 and receiving multiple All-SEC honors during his college career.
Braden Smith Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Braden Smith has received several nominations and accolades, including recognition as a standout player in college football and his selection to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Braden Smith Awards Won
Braden Smith has achieved notable awards during his career, including the Jacobs Blocking Trophy in 2017, which recognizes the best blocker in the SEC, and multiple All-SEC honors.
Braden Smith Family
Braden Smith is married and has a son. Details about his spouse and child are not publicly disclosed.
Personal Life
In 2024, Braden Smith was diagnosed with a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) known as religious scrupulosity, which significantly impacted his playing career. He missed the final five games of the 2024 NFL season and considered retirement. Smith sought treatment in Mexico using psychedelic substances, which are banned in the United States, before returning home for therapy. He reported improvements in his condition following treatment. Smith is a Christian and maintains a private personal life.
