Former New England Patriots linebacker and current ESPN NFL analyst Tedy Bruschi suffered a stroke on Thursday and has been hospitalized. According to a release from his family, he is “recovering well.”
JUST IN: Tedy Bruschi is recovering after suffering a stroke, according to his family. https://t.co/CD2zWy7ioY
— NECN (@NECN) July 5, 2019
“Yesterday afternoon, Tedy had a stroke, known as a TIA,” the release stated. “He recognized his warning signs immediately: arm weakness, face drooping and speech difficulties. Tedy is recovering well, and would like to thank the nurses, doctors and staff at Sturdy Memorial Hospital for all they have done. Tedy and his family thank you for your ongoing encouragement, and kindly ask for privacy at this time.”
This is the second stroke Bruschi has suffered. While a member of the Patriots in 2005, Bruschi had a stroke that reveled a congenital heart problem. After getting it surgically repaired, he played for another three seasons before retiring.
Prayers to @TedyBruschi, one of the most loyal teammates and best people you will ever meet. Wishing you a speedy recovery 🙏🙏 https://t.co/C2d6tq6ZPu pic.twitter.com/uo5onMZy2b
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) July 5, 2019
The 46-year-old former linebacker played from 1996-2008 and was a third round pick out of the University of Arizona. Bruschi was a three-time Super Bowl Champion, a Pro Bowler in 2004 and a two-time second-team All Pro selection in 2003 and 2004.
After returning from his first stroke he was named the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year in 2005 and the Best Comeback Athlete at the ESPYs. He’s a member of the New England Patriots Hall of Fame.
Best wishes to @TedyBruschi as he recovers from a stroke. He is a great, great guy. Always friendly, always smiling. Get well soon, Tedy.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) July 5, 2019
Bruschi played in 189 NFL games and started 139, recording 1,110 tackles, 30.5 sacks, 12 interceptions and 11 forced fumbles. His best season was 2003 when he notched 131 tackles, eight for a loss (both career highs) along with three interceptions, an NFL co-leading two returned for touchdowns, three forced fumbles, one fumble recover and two sacks.
We join the rest of the sports community in wishing Bruschi a speedy recovery.
