The Cleveland Browns organization has learned of some devastating news regarding one of their own legends.
Beloved Bernie Kosar, a franchise quarterback for the Cleveland Browns and Super Bowl champion, has been hospitalized after undergoing two urgent surgeries to stop internal bleeding — and his long-awaited liver transplant was delayed after an infection in the donor organ.
Unfolding Medical Emergency From Browns Legend Bernie Kosar
Jan 4, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; A view of the Cleveland Browns helmet before the game against Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
Jan 4, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; A view of the Cleveland Browns helmet before the game against Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
Kosar, 61, shared a stark video message from his hospital bed, quietly asking fans:
“I could really use your love, support and actual prayers today.” New York Post+1
What started as ongoing complications from previously disclosed liver disease and Parkinson’s diagnosis has escalated into a full-scale health emergency. Kosar revealed that his liver transplant — originally scheduled over the weekend — was postponed when the donor organ was found to be infected. AP News+1 Soon after, he was rushed into back-to-back surgeries to control life-threatening internal bleeding. New York Post+1
A Life On The Line
Dec 6, 1992; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) drops back to pass against the Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Stadium. FILE PHOTO; Mandatory Credit: Imagn Images
Dec 6, 1992; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) drops back to pass against the Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Stadium. FILE PHOTO; Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports
Kosar isn’t just another former athlete fighting health woes — he’s an icon in Cleveland sports history. He quarterbacked the Browns from 1985 to 1993, led the team to three AFC Championship Games, and later earned a Super Bowl ring with the Dallas Cowboys. His career achievements are matched only by the sudden and serious nature of his current condition.
Why This Status Demands Attention
Unprecedented escalation: Liver cirrhosis, Parkinson’s disease and now internal bleeding set the stakes alarmingly high.
Transplant delay adds risk: A postponed transplant increases both medical and emotional pressure.
Public plea for help: Kosar’s request for “actual prayers” underscores the severity of his fight.
Impact on legacy and awareness: His health battle brings renewed focus to long-term athlete wellness, particularly for former NFL players dealing with serious post-career issues.
What to Watch Next
Transplant scheduling: When will Kosar receive a new liver? What hurdles remain?
Medical updates: How will his condition evolve in the coming 48–72 hours?
Support efforts: How will the Browns organization, his former teammates and the NFL community respond?
Awareness ripple: Will this crisis prompt wider conversations about player health, life after football and post-career medical support?
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