Peyton Hillis Releases Statement After Near-Death Drowning

The former Madden cover star is expected to make a full recovery.

Former NFL running back Peyton Hillis posted a message to social media on Tuesday, thanking everyone who had reached out offering their support in recent weeks. Hillis had been hospitalized after rescuing his two children from drowning in a swimming accident in Pensacola, Fla., in January. 

Hillis spent more than two weeks recovering in the hospital after the incident, which took place on Jan. 4. He was discharged later that month. 

The message from Hillis was the first time he discussed the situation publicly since returning home from the hospital, and he expressed his gratitude over the kind words he received.

Thank you for all your love and prayers🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/VnrCmKWjlN

— Peyton Hillis (@thepeytonhillis) February 21, 2023

Hillis indicated that he’s expecting to make a full recovery and return to 100 percent strength, calling himself a “lucky and blessed man” and expressing that he’s hoping to keep his family out of the public eye.

At the time of the incident, the 37-year-old had to be transported by helicopter to the ICU. He was placed on a ventilator while dealing with issues to his kidneys. 

In his message, Hillis shared his gratitude for the staff at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola.

The ex-NFL running back spent time with the Broncos, Browns, Giants and Chiefs during his seven-year pro career, which spanned from 2008-14. Hillis landed on the cover of the popular EA football video game Madden for the 2012 edition after placing first in a vote by fans. He last played in an NFL game in 2014 for the Giants, appearing in nine games that season.