The 25-year-old NFL tight end Foster Moreau disclosed Wednesday that he has Hodgkin cancer and would miss football while undergoing treatment.
After a Saints physical, the free agent was diagnosed. Moreau visited the Cincinnati Bengals and New Orleans Saints last week as part of the free agency process.
"By kind of a magical process, this Free Agency period has been life-changing for me," Moreau tweeted.
"I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma by the Saints' medical team in New Orleans during a regular physical. I'll be taking a break from football to fight cancer.
I appreciate my supporters. I've always had hundreds of individuals guiding me, and I'll keep doing so."
Adds: "I'll go beat this beast and get back to what I love! AMDG!"
The Saints' longstanding team doctor, Dr. John Amoss, helped diagnose.
Amoss found that former Philadelphia Eagles long snapper Jon Dorenbos had an aortic aneurysm in 2017.
Dorenbos was diagnosed after the Saints' medical team examined him for a trade to New Orleans. He retired after surgery.
Hodgkin lymphoma, often known as Hodgkin's disease, affects the lymphatic system and starts in white blood cells. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more prevalent.
The Raiders selected New Orleans native Moreau in the fourth round in 2019. Throughout four seasons in Oakland and Las Vegas, he caught 91 receptions for 1,107 yards and 12 touchdowns.
After Moreau's statement, former teammates, including new Saints quarterback Derek Carr, offered support.
"Love you and we are here for you...praying for you brother!" Carr tweeted.