Former Browns running back Peyton Hillis is reportedly in critical condition after rescuing his kids from drowning in an ocean in Florida.
KNWA Fox 24's Alyssa Orange confirmed that Hillis had been involved in a swimming accident in Pensacola. He was airlifted to a local hospital and and was listed in an "unconscious" state as of Thursday evening. Hillis' children are reportedly safe.
A man identified as Hillis' uncle, Greg Hillis, posted a message on Facebook updating fans on his condition:
Peyton Hillis’ uncle posted this on Facebook and @OtisKirk23 brought it to my attention. #WPS pic.twitter.com/jYRvQPGAXF
— Alyssa Orange (@AlyssaOrange) January 6, 2023
A Conway, Arkansas, native, Hillis starred at Arkansas, teaming with versatile tailbacks Darren McFadden and Felix Jones to form a famous 1-2-3 punch. The Razorbacks climbed as high as No. 5 in the AP rankings with the trio, earning a spot in the 2007 SEC championship.
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Hillis then embarked on a seven-year NFL odyssey after being selected in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Broncos. Hillis turned out for Denver, Kansas City, Tampa Bay and the Giants over the course of his career. He is best known, though, for his tenure in Cleveland, one that saw him combine for 1,600 total yards and 13 total touchdowns in 2011.
For his efforts, Hillis was voted as the cover star for EA Sports' "Madden 2012", released in August 2011.
Hillis retired prematurely, ending his career after experiencing a spate of concussions. The 36-year old told Bleacher Report that he had dealt with bouts of depression throughout his career as he tried to get his health in order.
"I've always felt like I've kind of overachieved at everything I've done," Hillis said in 2015. "I've felt like I've always gone against the odds because the odds are never on my side. As long as I've played football, they never were."
