Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton revealed Monday that he underwent successful surgery to remove a testicular tumor after being diagnosed with cancer late last week.Â
As 9News Denver noted, despite the diagnosis, the veteran defender and one of Denverâs defensive leaders says his prognosis is good and he plans to return to the field in just a few weeks.
Singletonâs diagnosis came after a random NFL drug test showed elevated levels of the hormone hCG, a sign that prompted further medical evaluation.Â
He played through Thursdayâs game against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he helped the Broncos secure a 10-7 win, before undergoing surgery the following day.Â
âI shared with my teammates and coaches this morning that I underwent successful surgery on Friday for testicular cancer after being diagnosed last week,â Singleton said in a statement released Monday.Â
âThankfully, we believe the cancer was caught early with a great prognosis for me and my family.âÂ
âWhile we are still awaiting some additional tests, I fully expect to return to the field in the coming weeks.â Â
Singletonâs Courage and the Importance of Early Detection
Singleton explained that the elevated hCG levels were detected during a routine league drug test.Â
Knowing he hadnât taken anything that could trigger the results, he immediately sought medical help.
He credited Dr. Andrew Zilavy and Dr. Geoff Ledgerwood for quickly diagnosing and treating the tumor, as well as the Broncos organization for mobilizing support within hours of his initial call.Â
âI wrestled with sharing such personal information publicly,â Singleton said.
âBut the fact is, if it helps one person decide to play closer attention to their body, then it is well worth it.âÂ
He emphasized that âearly detection and regular screenings save lives.âÂ
Singleton also thanked Broncos ownership Greg and Carrie Penner, general manager George Paton, and head coach Sean Payton for their immediate support.
Singletonâs Impact on Denverâs Defense
A cornerstone of the Broncosâ defense, Singleton has once again been among the leagueâs best tacklers.
He currently leads Denver and ranks fifth in the NFL with 89 total tackles and is a key piece in one of NFLâs most dominant defensive units.
He is a guy that is known for his toughness and is considered by many to be the âquarterbackâ of this Denver Broncos defense.Â
On the field, this is a huge loss for a Broncos defense that currently ranks third in points allowed, first in opponents yards per play, and third in opponents yards per game.Â
With Singleton and Surtain now out for the next few weeks, other Broncos defenders will have to step up and his absence until they are able to return.Â
As Singleton focuses on recovery, the Broncos will lean on his leadership presence off the field.Â
His teammates and fans across the league have already begun showing support, with messages pouring in throughout Monday afternoon.
Head coach Sean Payton praised Singletonâs resilience and impact, saying the team is ârallying around himâ as he recovers. Â
âAlex embodies everything we want in a Bronco: toughness, accountability, and heart,â Payton said. âWeâre all behind him every step of the way.âÂ
Singleton closed his statement with gratitude and optimism:Â
âThere are so many people I want to thank for their support and immediate action over these past few weeks.â
âMore than anything, I just want to emphasize the importance of listening to your body and getting checked. It can save lives.â
We are all praying for Singleton and wishing him a speedy recovery.
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