Barry Sanders announces he suffered heart-related health scare over Father's Day weekend

One of the greatest running backs in the history of the game is doing fine following a recent health scare related to his heart. Barry Sanders released a statement on Friday on his Twitter page, letting fans know about the issue, while being grateful for the medical care he received.

.@Lions @NFL @NFLPA @ProFootballHOF @HeismanTrophy @okstate pic.twitter.com/1fGb790PlK

— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) June 21, 2024

“To all of my supporters,” Sanders wrote. “Over Father’s Day weekend, I experienced a health care related to my heart. It was unexpected and served as a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant about our physical well-being, even when we are feeling fine. I am grateful for the amazing doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals for providing me with needed care. My family and I are thankful for your prayers and support during this time.”

“Per my doctor’s recommendation, I am taking this opportunity to prioritize my health and well-being. I appreciate your understanding and continued support,” Sanders finished.

Sanders, 55, called it a career after compiling 15,269 yards and 99 touchdowns over the course of 10 seasons. He earned Pro Bowl honors each year of his career, and won his lone NFL MVP Award in 1997 after rushing for 2,053 yards on 6.1 yards per carry and 11 scores. Sanders rushed for over 1,300 yards in all but one season during his career — 1993 when he amassed 1,115 yards in just 11 games. He sits fourth on the all-time rushing list, only behind Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton, and Frank Gore.

In college, Sanders suited up for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. He won the Heisman Trophy after what is considered to be one of the greatest seasons in the history of the sport. He set 34 NCAA records in 1988. With Thurman Thomas off to the NFL, Sanders danced around defenders all season long in a historic season. He rushed for 2,628 yards, an average of 238.9 yards per game, with 37 rushing touchdowns. He also tacked on a punt return touchdown and a kickoff return TD to bring his regular season touchdown total to 39. Once the dust had settled, he racked up 3,250 all-purpose yards, averaging 8.3 yards per play as the Cowboys finished 9-2 overall and ranked No. 12 in the national polls.

In the bowl game against Wyoming, Sanders added another 222 yards on the ground and five touchdowns, pushing his 12-game total to 2,850 rushing yards and 42 touchdowns.

On3’s Nick Geddes also contributed to this article.