Arizona Cardinals defensive end JJ Watt says his heart was shocked again to the beat after suffering atrial fibrillation this week and he still plans to play with the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
Three-time NFL Defender of the Year tweeted Sunday: “I was just told that someone shared personal information about me and this was reported today. Wednesday I had atrial fibrillation, Thursday my heart picked up pace. and I’ll play today. That’s all. “
The Cardinals reported that Watt did not train on Wednesday and Thursday and was in limited fitness on Friday. He was found questionable due to a calf injury and illness.
Watt, 33, is five-time All-Pro and Walter Payton Man of the Year 2017.
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 complications if not treated properly.
Watt missed his first game of the year with a calf injury, but has played in the last two games. He has Arizona’s only two layoffs this season.
Watt has 104 sacks so far in his NFL career.
