Arizona Cardinals defensive end JJ Watt says his heart was shocked back into rhythm following suffering atrial fibrillation this week and he still plans to play the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year tweeted Sunday, “I have just been advised that someone has shared personal information regarding me and this is being reported today. I got atrial fibrillation on Wednesday, my heart got back into rhythm on Thursday and I’m going to play today. That’s all.”
The Cardinals reported that Watt did not train on Wednesday and Thursday and had limited fitness on Friday. He was ruled questionable due to a calf injury and an illness.
Watt, 33, is a five-time All-Pro and the 2017 Walter Payton Man of the Year.
Atrial fibrillation is defined as an “irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm that can lead to blood clots in the heart,” according to the Mayo Clinic. This can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications if not treated properly.
Watt missed the first game of the year with a calf injury but has featured in the last two games. He has Arizona’s only two sacks this season.
Watt has 104 sacks so far in his NFL career.
