'They scared me': Houston Texans' star Will Anderson reveals heartbreaking childhood fear that still haunts him in the dark
NFL fans were surprised this week to learn that Will Anderson, the Houston Texans star linebacker, still fears the dark. The reason? His five older sisters played cruel games when he was young.
They locked him in closets or left him in a dark basement. On a recent podcast, Will Anderson shared he now sleeps with the TV on because of those memories. His words both shocked and touched listeners. Many wondered: how did these pranks shape him, and why does his fear still haunt him today?
What Will Anderson said about his sisters and fear
Will Anderson told the story on July 8, 2025, during a media appearance at Houston Texans NRG Stadium. He said his five older sisters
'would trap me in a closet or lock me in a dark basement,'
causing trauma that still affects him. Will Anderson added,
'They scarred me,'
and revealed he panics when lights go off now.
To feel safe, he said he must sleep with the TV on every night. His story came during a chat about his childhood in Birmingham, Alabama, and how family shaped his courage on the field.
How Will Anderson copes now and what it means for his life
Will Anderson said that sleeping with the TV on was more than a habit, it's a way to calm his head before he goes to sleep. He even admitted that his heart still races when he goes into a dark room. The HoustonTexans star added that talking about it was hard, but he hopes his story helps others who feel fear from childhood.
Coaches and teammates at Houston Texans have shown support, saying his openness makes him not just a strong player, but a brave person.
Also Read:
'Pathetic': Cowboys, Texans Slammed Over $1.5M Texas Flood Aid Despite Billion-Dollar Valuations
At 24, Will Anderson has become one of the NFL's best defensive players, but these early fears follow him off the field. He said he still takes a moment before bed to turn on the set and let its light guide him. He calls it a
'comfort trick.'
As he prepares for new games this season, he faces not only his opponents but the shadows inside his own head.
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
here.
Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
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