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NFL legend and former Lions Hall of Famer Barry Sanders revealed that he experienced a “health scare” over Father’s Day weekend. Sanders’ scare was heart-related.
Sanders did not provide an update on his condition but wrote on social media that he wanted to “use this opportunity to prioritize my health and well-being.”
“This was unexpected, but it has served as a reminder of the importance of taking care of your physical health, even when you’re feeling well,” Sanders wrote. “I am grateful for the incredible doctors, nurses and other medical professionals who provided the care I needed. My family and I appreciate all of your prayers and support during this time.”
Sanders, 55, currently serves as an ambassador for the Lions. He recently attended the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit. During the draft, Bill Belichick said Sanders was the hardest player he’d ever guarded in his 49 years as an NFL coach.
In January, Sanders and former 49ers Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana served as honorary captains in the NFC Championship Game, when the 49ers defeated Sanders’ Lions. Last September, Sanders became the first Lions player to have a statue erected in his honor. In November, Amazon Prime released a documentary detailing Sanders’ career and why he decided to retire despite being 1,500 yards away from breaking Walter Payton’s career rushing record.
A first-ballot Hall of Fame selection, Sanders was the first player to rush for at least 1,000 yards in each of his first 10 seasons. He won four rushing titles during his 10-year career (1989-1998) and became just the third player in NBA history to rush for at least 2,000 yards in a season in 1997. Sanders shared the league MVP award that season with then-Packers quarterback Brett Favre.
