LOOK: Emmitt Smith visits Peyton Hillis after heroic act lands former NFL star in ICU

Over the last two weeks, former NFL running back Peyton Hillis was in a fight for his life. After saving his kids from drowning, he himself was placed in critical condition. However, after some time in the ICU, Hillis’ status has much improved.

Now, amidst his recovery, an NFL great decided to swing by to visit Hillis. Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith shared this photo on Instagram of him and Hillis in the hospital.

“I had the opportunity to visit a recovering hero this week, Peyton Hillis,” read Smith’s caption. “Stay strong Peyton! Praying for you, your family and wishing you a speedy recovery.”

Per the last Instagram update from Hillis’ girlfriend, Angela Cole, Hillis was taken off the ventilator last week. His kidney issues, which doctors were very concerned about, had also improved.

“A hero. So proud of this man and so incredibly grateful for family and this incredible hospital. Peyton is off the ventilator and is on the road to recovery,” wrote Cole. “Please continue to pray for he’s still got a ways ahead of him, but thank you for all of your prayers and love and support thus far. It truly makes all the difference. Today was a good day.”

Hillis likely still has a little bit to go before he’s fully back to 100%. Even so, considering his actions saved the lives of his children? Hillis will be regarded as nothing short of a hero moving forward.

Insider: Panthers reschedule Payton interview for January 23rd

The Carolina Panthers and Sean Payton have decided on a new date for his head coaching interview.

Payton will meet with Panthers leadership Monday, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. They were originally slated to Friday before that but Carolina ownership has been focused on helping out in the aftermath of Charlotte FC defender Anton Walkes‘ death this week.

Sean Payton’s head coaching interview with Carolina is tentatively being rescheduled for Mon, Jan. 23 as Panthers’ owner David Tepper remains focused on the tragic death of Charlotte FC defender Anton Walkes.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 20, 2023

Sean Payton is one of the top names in the coaching carousel this offseason. He was the head coach of the New Orleans Saints from 2006-2011 and 2013-2021. However, Payton was suspended for the 2012 season due to the team’s bounty scandal.

He was 152-89 in 15 seasons with the Saints, making the playoffs nine times and winning one Super Bowl.

The Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans are also reported to be in the mix for Payton.

But for whatever team, if there is one, that opts to hire Payton, it won’t be as simple as most coaching deals.

Payton is still under contract with the Saints through 2024 so other organizations still have to get approval from New Orleans before interviewing and negotiating.

It will also take some capital to land Payton. The Saints reportedly want at least a first round pick for Payton.