Browns Legend Bernie Kosar Diagnosed with Liver Disease and Parkinson's

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar has revealed that he is suffering from liver disease and was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. The 60-year-old legend has been placed on a transplant list and is undergoing treatment for his conditions.

Cleveland Browns legend Bernie Kosar, who led the team to three AFC championship game appearances, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with liver disease and Parkinson's. The 60-year-old former NFL quarterback made the announcement in a recent interview with Cleveland Magazine, stating that he was placed on a transplant list in late spring.

Kosar, who played for the Browns from 1985 to 1993, said he was diagnosed with cirrhosis 16 months ago but experienced a serious health scare at a Thursday Night Football game between the Browns and the New York Jets last season.

Browns Legend Bernie Kosar Diagnosed with Liver Disease and Parkinson's

"My body gave out on me,'' he told the outlet. "I really felt like I wasn't going to make it home from the Jets game. I sucked it up, though, and continued to avoid the doctors until the new year. Then, I went into the hospital and got a massive blood transfusion. It was like, ‘How are you alive? How are you moving? Because your hemoglobin levels are so low.'"

In addition to his liver disease, Kosar was diagnosed with Parkinson's in February by an independent NFL doctor. Doctors told Cleveland Magazine that he will eventually need a liver transplant.

Browns Legend Bernie Kosar Diagnosed with Liver Disease and Parkinson's

"Liver disease does tend to fluctuate," said Dr. Anthony Post, a hepatologist for University Hospitals. "So, he's on that wave thing where it goes up and down. He's in a good phase right now, but anything bad could happen."

Kosar echoed that sentiment, adding that he is in a much better place health-wise after undergoing treatment and a change in lifestyle.

Browns Legend Bernie Kosar Diagnosed with Liver Disease and Parkinson's

"I wish you could have seen me three months ago,'' he said. "Actually, maybe not, because I looked like death. I felt like death. E. Coli blood poisoning. Heart trouble. And I really thought I needed the liver transplant ASAP. I was in bad shape."

Despite his health challenges, Kosar expressed optimism and determination.

Browns Legend Bernie Kosar Diagnosed with Liver Disease and Parkinson's

"It’s amazing that you can feel as good as I do despite all this stuff going on," he added. "I can see that what I’m doing is making a difference. I strongly believe it will continue. Time will tell.’'

Kosar led the Browns to three AFC championship game appearances during his time with the team. He was cut by Cleveland coach Bill Belichick in 1993 and went on to win a Super Bowl as a backup with the Dallas Cowboys. He passed for 23,301 yards and threw 124 touchdown passes from 1985 to 1996. He was a star at the University of Miami before being drafted by the Browns first overall in the 1985 supplemental draft.

Kosar's diagnosis has raised concerns about the long-term health effects of football injuries, particularly concussions. He has previously spoken out about the risks associated with head trauma in the NFL, calling for increased awareness and protection for players.

The news of Kosar's health struggles has saddened Browns fans and the football community at large. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Browns history and is remembered for his leadership, toughness, and unwavering determination.

Kosar's journey with liver disease and Parkinson's will undoubtedly be challenging, but his resilience and positive attitude serve as an inspiration to all who face health adversity. His legacy as a Browns legend and advocate for player safety will continue to endure.