Hall of Fame former running back Barry Sanders said Friday on X that he suffered a heart-related “health scare” the weekend of June 16.
“It was unexpected and served as a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant about our physical well-being, even when we are feeling fine,” Sanders wrote.
Sanders established himself as one of the greatest players in NFL history through ten seasons with the Detroit Lions between 1989 and 1998.
He was recently in attendance with the Lions at the 2024 NFL Draft in April.
“I am grateful for the amazing doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals for providing me with needed care,” Sanders wrote. “My family and I are thankful for your prayers and support during this time.”
Sanders, 55, concluded that he was “taking this opportunity to prioritize my health and well-being.”
The Lions sent a message of encouragement to the franchise legend following his statement.
The former co-MVP and ten-time Pro Bowler retired from the NFL in 1999 after racking up 15,269 rushing yards, a total that ranks today as the fourth-most of all time.
Sanders was inducted into the Hall of Fame during his first year of eligibility in 2004, and re-joined the Lions as a brand ambassador in 2017.
His retirement at the age of 31 didn’t stop Sanders’ legend from living on in Detroit, where the Lions last year unveiled a statue in the former running back’s honor outside of Ford Field.