Home / Sports / NFL Legend Bernie Kosar Battles Liver Failure and Parkinson's, Undergoes Third Surgery
NFL Legend Bernie Kosar Battles Liver Failure and Parkinson's, Undergoes Third Surgery
12 Nov
Summary
- Kosar, 61, facing liver failure and Parkinson's disease
- Scheduled for liver transplant, but donor liver was infected
- Underwent two "aggressive procedures" this week, now facing third surgery
On November 12, 2025, former NFL quarterback Bernie Kosar, 61, revealed he is facing a health crisis as he battles liver failure and Parkinson's disease. Kosar, who spent nine years with the Cleveland Browns, was scheduled to receive a donor liver over the weekend, but it was reported to be infected.
As a result, Kosar began suffering from internal bleeding on Monday, November 10, 2025, and had to undergo two "aggressive procedures." Now, just two days later, he is preparing to undergo a third surgery this week, asking his fans for their "love, support and actual prayers."
Kosar first opened up about his health struggles in July 2024, when he revealed to Cleveland Magazine that he was facing a cirrhosis diagnosis and early-stage Parkinson's. He said his body "gave out" during a Browns game against the Jets in December 2023, and he had to get a massive blood transfusion after avoiding doctors until the new year.
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The former quarterback, who retired in 1996, has been left with numerous health issues from his NFL career, including around 100 concussions and 80 broken bones. He has been on a liver transplant list for over a year, but has expressed mixed emotions about the prospect, saying he doesn't "wish any ill or issues" on the potential donor.
