From East Buchanan to the Outland Trophy
The Gazette’s hometown profile follows Robert Gallery from East Buchanan High School to the University of Iowa, where he earned unanimous All-American honors and won the 2003 Outland Trophy. He was drafted second overall by the Oakland Raiders in 2004 and went on to play eight NFL seasons as an offensive lineman.
The Cost of the Game
After retiring in 2012, Robert battled severe cognitive and emotional symptoms tied to what he describes as “hundreds, if not thousands of concussions” across his career. He was diagnosed with probable Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). Symptoms included foggy thinking, memory loss, uncontrollable rage, and recurring suicidal ideation that strained his relationships and his family.
A Turning Point in Mexico
Robert discovered ibogaine — a psychoactive plant medicine derived from African root bark — through a podcast featuring Navy SEAL Marcus Capone of VETS (Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions). In 2021 he traveled to Mexico for treatment, going off all medications cold turkey beforehand.
“Everything was different. I had zero anxiety, I had zero rage, I had zero suicide thoughts.” — Robert Gallery
He returned for additional sessions in 2023 and 2024, and now describes himself as in “a very, very good place.”
A New Mission
Today, Robert is co-founder and president of Athletes for Care, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing mental health research and creating pathways for athletes seeking alternative treatments for TBI, depression, and substance use.
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