Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar shared an update on his health journey via social media on Thursday, revealing he recently underwent his fifth medical procedure in a week as he manages liver failure. In a heartfelt video, Kosar expressed his struggles, stating, “I want to say how great I’m doing, but wow, the bleeding came back really aggressively in the middle of the night.”
Earlier in the week, Kosar disclosed he had undergone two procedures to address recurring internal bleeding and was scheduled for a third on the same day he posted his update. The 61-year-old had been slated to receive a liver transplant over the weekend, but unfortunately, the donor organ was found to be infected. “Man, all the duress right now, I could really use your love and support and prayers today,” he implored his followers.
Kosar has faced multiple setbacks, with internal bleeding returning after each procedure, which has necessitated repeated surgeries as he sits on the transplant waiting list. His health challenges became more evident in July 2024 when he revealed in an interview with Cleveland Magazine that he had been diagnosed with liver failure and early signs of Parkinson’s Disease. He was added to the liver transplant list in late spring of that same year.
In December 2023, Kosar recalled a particularly difficult moment when he felt he might not make it home following a Browns game against the Jets. “I sucked it up, though, and continued to avoid the doctors until the new year. Then I went into the hospital and got a massive blood transfusion,” he shared.
During his illustrious career, Kosar was a national champion and earned All-American honors at the University of Miami before being drafted by the Browns in 1985. He played nine seasons in Cleveland, leading the team to three AFC Championship games and earning a Pro Bowl nod in 1987. After being released in 1993, he joined the Dallas Cowboys, stepping in for an injured Troy Aikman during the NFC Championship Game, which helped the Cowboys clinch their third Super Bowl title against the Bills.
Kosar concluded his playing career with the Miami Dolphins and has remained connected to the Browns organization, even serving as a consultant for the team’s former owner, Randy Lerner. Despite his health challenges, Kosar’s resilience and determination shine through, and the outpouring of support from fans serves as a reminder of his significant impact on the sport and his community.