Solomon Thomas wants young people to know it’s OK to not be OK, and that reaching out for help is a sign of strength — not weakness.

The NFL defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys and his parents know the unbearable weight of losing a loved one to a silent battle with mental health. His sister, Ella, died by suicide at age 24.

“She was the most important person in my life,” Thomas said. “My world got so dark that I didn’t want to be here anymore.” It was an NFL general manager who encouraged Thomas to seek mental health support. “He told me, ‘If you need help, we got you,’” Thomas recalled. “I felt this weight lift off my shoulders.”

Compelled to help others, Thomas and his parents founded The Defensive Line, a nonprofit working to destigmatize mental health and end youth suicide. Thomas is honoring Ella’s legacy and highlighting The Defensive Line through the NFL’s annual My Cause My Cleats campaign, which allows players to shine the spotlight on mission-driven organizations and issues they are passionate about by wearing custom-designed cleats representing their chosen cause.

“There is no strength in silence,” Thomas said. “Take care of yourself, love yourself, and get help if you need it.”

Fans can join Thomas by visiting his My Cause My Cleats page to directly support The Defensive Line, bid on his custom cleats, or find another cause near you.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Text, call, or chat 988.

This story is part of a special partnership between the NFL and Stand Together, focused on amplifying and growing the impact of the philanthropic work of NFL players. Together, this collaboration shows real strength comes when we unlock the strength within communities and the critical role each of us can play in contributing to solving problems around us.

Learn more about Stand Together’s top issue areas and explore ways you can partner with us.