Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar underwent two aggressive procedures on Wednesday as he continues to wait for a delayed liver transplant. The 61-year-old NFL veteran shared updates on social media, emphasizing his fighter's spirit amid the health challenges. Kosar was originally slated for the transplant over the weekend, but it was postponed due to an infected donor organ.
Bernie Kosar, a Pro Bowl quarterback who led the Browns to three AFC Championship games, provided a health update via social media, revealing he is in the hospital receiving care. "I could really use your love, support and actual prayers today," Kosar said. He noted undergoing two aggressive procedures and preparing for a third, while maintaining his sense of humor by joking about his hospital attire in a video, repping the Browns despite the lighthearted reference to Steelers colors.
Diagnosed in 2021 with cirrhosis of the liver and Parkinson's disease, Kosar has been on the transplant list at University Hospitals. The delay came after the donor organ was found to be infected, pushing back what was expected to be a procedure over the weekend.
A 12-year NFL veteran, Kosar was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1985 NFL Draft after leading the Miami Hurricanes to a national championship. In Cleveland, he guided the Browns to four playoff appearances from 1985-89, including three playoff wins—the second-most by a Browns starting quarterback behind Hall of Famer Otto Graham. Notably, in the 1986 divisional round, Kosar threw for an NFL-record 489 yards in a win over the New York Jets, a mark later surpassed only by Ben Roethlisberger and Tom Brady.
After leaving Cleveland, Kosar served as a backup for the Dallas Cowboys, contributing a touchdown pass in their 1993 NFC Championship Game victory en route to a Super Bowl win. He concluded his career with three seasons as Dan Marino's backup for the Miami Dolphins.
Kosar expressed gratitude for the support, posting, "Grateful for all the thoughts and prayers. 🙏🏼 I am in the hospital getting some care and keeping that fighter’s spirit strong. 💪🏼 #UMatter #RenewingAthletesLives."