Former NFL star Peyton Hillis is reportedly in intensive care after saving his children from drowning in the ocean.
Reporter Alyssa Orange shared that Hillis and his family were swimming in Pensacola, Florida, when the incident took place. He was transported to the hospital via helicopter and “remains unconscious in the ICU.”
Adding to this information, I have confirmed Hillis was in a swimming accident in Pensacola, FL and helicoptered to the hospital. He remains unconscious in the ICU.
Family asks to please pray for him and a speedy recovery. https://t.co/bHWdZpJeXq
— Alyssa Orange (@AlyssaOrange) January 6, 2023
Hillis’s uncle, Greg Hillis, posted an update to Facebook Thursday evening.
“I just wanted to let everyone know on Razorback Nation that Peyton is doing better. He’s still in intensive care and having some problems with his kidneys and his lungs but the doctors say he is improving,” Greg wrote. “I just wanted to head off any rumors that may be started.”
Numerous outlets report that Hillis’s children are okay.
Peyton Hillis was raised in Conway, Arkansas, where he was a standout athlete. He was named Best High School Football Player in the state and was considered the best fullback in the nation.
Hillis attended college at the University of Arkansas where he tied the SEC freshman touchdown record. As a senior in 2007, Hillis set a program single-season record for running backs. His career 118 catches set a U of A school record for receptions by a running back.
Peyton was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2008. Two years later he was traded to Cleveland where he saw his greatest professional success.
Remember that time Peyton Hillis rumbled for 184 yards to lead the @Browns past the Patriots? pic.twitter.com/PLwIYlU2XG
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) October 27, 2019
After suffering injuries, Hillis played briefly for the Kansas City Chiefs, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New York Giants before retiring in 2015.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Peyton Hillis and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.