Story update: The Arkansas Razorbacks tweeted Friday that Peyton Hillis is “doing better,” but there is no further update about this status available at this time. See our original post below.
Former Denver Broncos running back Peyton Hillis is in an intensive care unit after a recent swimming accident in Pensacola, Florida, according to a report from KNWA-TV’s Alyssa Orange.
Orange reported that Hillis was helicoptered to a hospital and, as of Thursday evening, remained unconscious in the ICU.
Hillis’ uncle, Greg Hillis, wrote on Facebook on Thursday that his nephew “is improving,” but is not recovered yet.
“I just wanted to let everyone know on Razorback Nation that Peyton is doing better,” Greg Hillis wrote. “He’s still in intensive care and having some problems with his kidneys and his lungs but the doctors say he is improving.
“I just wanted to head off any rumors that may be started. I’m sure he would want everyone to know that he appreciates all of the prayers being thrown up on his behalf!!!”
Hillis, 36, played college football at Arkansas before being selected by the Broncos in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL draft. He originally began his NFL career as a fullback. After multiple injuries at the position, Denver moved Hillis to running back, where he excelled late in his rookie season.
Hillis started six games in 2008 and ended the year with 522 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns. Hillis saw his role diminish under new coach Josh McDaniels in 2009, and he was later traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2010.
Hillis went on to total 1,654 yards from scrimmage and scored 13 touchdowns in his first season with the Browns, earning him Madden cover honors the following spring.
Hillis later spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Giants before retiring in 2015 due to concussion and injury concerns.
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