
Former NFL Linebacker | President, NFLPA Northern California
Founder & CEO, H.E.A.R.T. 2 H.E.A.R.T., Inc. & S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc.
J. Douglas Hollie is a former NFL linebacker for the Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks, and currently serves as President of the NFL Players Association – Northern California Chapter. A native of Detroit, Michigan, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Southern Methodist University, where he was named First Team All-Southwest Conference and Second Team All-American.
Douglas is the Founder and CEO of H.E.A.R.T. 2 H.E.A.R.T., Inc., established in 2009, which provides community-based support services across six Bay Area counties to individuals facing mental health challenges, substance abuse issues, and re-entry barriers. His work is rooted in empowerment, healing, and restoring dignity.
He is also the Founder and President of S.M.A.R.T. Students, Inc., created in 1996 to provide leadership development, academic mentorship, and college pathway support for under-resourced youth. To date, S.M.A.R.T. Students has awarded more than 125 college scholarships to young people impacted by juvenile probation and systemic barriers.
As President of the NFLPA Northern California Chapter, Douglas leads initiatives that mobilize former professional athletes to serve the community, including the "Real Men Read" literacy and mentorship program in local schools.
His dedication to service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the KQED/Union Bank Community Leader of the Year Award.
Douglas is affiliated with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, and continues to be a champion for education, restoration, and community empowerment.
