NFL legend Randy Moss is set to take some time away from his punditry work on ESPN after reportedly being diagnosed with liver cancer.
Last week, the network announced Moss would take extended leave from ESPN but did not confirm the health issue ailing the 47-year-old.
In a statement on X, ESPN said the former wide receiver would step away from his role on "Sunday NFL Countdown" for an "extended time" in order "to focus on a personal health challenge."
Advertisement
READ MORE: One flaw splitting 'Fab Four' in endless cricket debate
READ MORE: 'Oh damn': Shaq leaves panel in stitches after TV blunder
READ MORE: Broncos star delivers 'honest' call over coaching change
Randy Moss throws a football ahead of a broadcast.
Randy Moss throws a football ahead of a broadcast. Cooper Neill via Getty Images
"For nearly a decade, Randy has been an invaluable member of the team, consistently elevating 'Countdown' with his insight and passion," the network said in its statement.
"He has ESPN's full support, and we look forward to welcoming him back when he is ready."
According to longtime sports reporter Larry Fitzgerald Sr, Moss has liver cancer.
In a post to his X account, Fitzgerald Sr shared that he learned of Moss' sickness at the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame ceremony.
"66th NFF Hall of Fame Ceremony here in Las Vegas just heard that Vikings HOF Randy Moss has liver cancer. Let's show the power of prayer and pull Moss through this... I love you, Randy," he wrote on Wednesday.
Last Monday, Moss posted two videos to his Instagram account explaining why he wore tinted sunglasses during television appearances in recent weeks.
He then addressed the issue at the top of ESPN's coverage of "Sunday NFL Countdown."
"I just wanted to share something with you all," Moss said.
"I put a post up maybe a few minutes ago on Instagram just telling people — you were talking about my eyes last week — and I just want to let the viewers know that me and my wife, me and my family, we are battling something internally.
"I have some great doctors around me. I couldn't miss the show, I wanted to be here with you guys."
The analyst appeared to be in high spirits as he joked with colleagues on the show, saying he felt "great."
The decision comes after concern grew recently when viewers noticed Moss' eyes appeared yellow. He then started to wear sunglasses during television appearances.
Moss has not revealed any details about what he is battling and has not commented publicly since ESPN released its statement.
The NFL legend played 14 seasons in the league, most notably with the Minnesota Vikings and the New England Patriots.
He is considered one of the greatest wide receivers in the sport's history, being named a first-team All-Pro four times and leading the NFL in receiving touchdowns on five occasions. Over his stellar career, Moss had 15,292 receiving yards and 156 touchdowns.
On Friday, the Vikings responded to ESPN's statement with a message on social media that read: "Praying for our guy @RandyMoss."
- Additional reporting by Emily Patterson