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Peyton Hillis, former Arkansas star and NFL running back, in critical condition after saving children from drowning

A scary situation for former Arkansas star Peyton Hillis after coming to the rescue of his children

James Parks

Peyton Hillis, former Arkansas star and NFL running back, in critical condition after saving children from drowning
Peyton Hillis, former Arkansas star and NFL running back, in critical condition after saving children from drowning /

Former star Arkansas and NFL running back Peyton Hillis is in critical condition after saving his children from drowning, according to multiple media reports.

Hillis saved his children from drowning while in the ocean off Pensacola, Florida, according to a report from Fox 24 (Fayetteville, Ark.)

Hillis' uncle, Greg, says the former Razorback is "doing better" but still has a way to go in his recovery.

"I just wanted to let everyone know on Razorback Nation that Peyton is doing better," he said in a Facebook post that was shared by Fox 24.

"He's still in intensive care and having some problems with his kidneys and his lungs, but 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 came to prominence during his career at Arkansas from 2004 to 2008. He finished with 203 carries for 959 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards per rush, in four seasons with the Razorbacks.

He was also a receiving threat, catching 118 passes for 1,195 yards (10.1 average) and 11 additional touchdowns.

Hillis played in the National Football League from 2008 to 2014, suiting up for the Denver Broncos, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, and New York Giants.

He had an especially productive outing in Cleveland, running 270 times for 1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning a spot as the cover athlete for Madden 12.

As a pro, Hillis had 2,832 rushing yards while averaging 4.1 yards per carry in 81 appearances, adding 1,050 receiving yards and scoring 26 total touchdowns.

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James Parks
JAMES PARKS

James Parks is the founder and publisher of College Football HQ. He previously covered football for 247Sports and CBS Interactive. College Football HQ joined the Sports Illustrated Fannation Network in 2022.

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