Last Thursday, Kansas City Chiefs defensive end BJ Thompson experienced a cardiac arrest during the team’s practice.
Thanks to the rapid and skilled response from the Chiefs’ medical staff, Thompson was stabilized in a highly critical situation.
By Thursday afternoon, while still unconscious, he was reported to be stable with optimal vitals, according to a staff member. The family requested prayers for BJ, and an outpouring of support followed from fans and the NFL community alike.
On Friday, the Chiefs were able to provide a hopeful update: BJ Thompson had awakened, and his vitals were stable. NFL reporter Tom Pelissero shared that Thompson’s prognosis was positive and he was expected to make a full recovery.
Following the incident, the Chiefs had suspended all team activities, but this news renewed hope for Thompson’s return to the field.
Additionally, it was revealed that Thompson had also suffered a seizure. Rick Burkholder, the Chiefs’ vice president of sports medicine and performance, informed reporters about Thompson’s condition, stating, “He’s awake and he’s alert. He’s headed in the absolute right direction. Our players, our security staff, everybody involved, coaches and staff, they were phenomenal in handling the crisis.”
As the team looks forward to the mandatory minicamp starting Tuesday, it remains uncertain whether Thompson will be able to join. His recovery continues to be a priority, and the team remains hopeful about his return to activity.
