Former NFL, Arkansas star Peyton Hillis says no one dying in swimming accident 'is 100 percent a miracle'

After making a miraculous full recovery from lung and kidney failure, former NFL and Arkansas star Peyton Hillis joined Good Morning America to share his story. Hillis nearly died saving his son and his niece from a rip current at a Florida beach in January. After their recovery, he spent 10 days unconscious and on a ventilator.

Hillis told GMA’s Michael Strahan about the “scariest point” of his daring rescue, which involved temporarily letting his son struggle against the current so he could reach his niece who was in dire straits. He said he believes it’s “100 percent a miracle somebody didn’t die.”

The former Razorback described “swimming to my son and I have to pass by him because my niece is in more danger.”

He said that he knew he had “to pass him up to get to Camille first . . . because, you know, if I didn’t then there’s no way she would’ve made it.” The hero dad was able to save both children thanks to his quick thinking and braveness.

A native of Conway, Arkansas, Hillis played fullback for the Razorbacks from 2004-07 and was a teammate of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones. He finished his career in Fayetteville with 959 yards rushing, 118 receptions, 1,195 yards receiving and 23 total touchdowns. 

Following his college career, Hillis was a seventh-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft to the Denver Broncos. He went on to enjoy a seven-year pro career, playing for the Broncos, Browns, Chiefs, Buccaneers and Giants. 

Hillis officially retired from the NFL in 2015, finishing his career with 3,882 all-purpose yards and 26 total touchdowns.

Hillis makes full recovery

Following his release from the hospital, the former running back took the time to thank everyone who helped or chimed in as he recovered.

“I just wanted to come on here and thank people for all the prayers and love y’all have given me,” he wrote. “It’s really made all the difference. I also want to thank my brave sister, mother, sister-in-law, my kids and my girlfriend who has saved my life in more ways than one. Thank you to the amazing staff at the hospital. Baptist Hospital in Pensacola. Y’all were truly amazing and took such great care of me. You made all the difference in my recovery.

“I haven’t taken any interviews on this because I’d like to keep my family out of the public eye because it was a very traumatic time for us. But I did want to come on here and show my appreciation for everyone who helped save my life and for all of your prayers, love and support. I left the hospital with no worries and concerns and should make a 100% recovery. I’m a very lucky and blessed man. Yahweh has really blessed me and I am very thankful.”

On3’s Chandler Vessels contributed to this report.