(Charlotte) Arizona Cardinals defensive end JJ Watt underwent a medical procedure to normalize his heart rate following a bout of atrial fibrillation earlier this week but was still planning to participate in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.
Posted at 1:50 p.m.
On his Twitter account on Sunday, Watt said he was notified that someone had leaked personal information about him and that it would be reported.
“I had an episode of atrial fibrillation on Wednesday, my heart was shocked back into rhythm on Thursday and I’m playing today. That’s it,” the 33-year-old footballer wrote.
The Cardinals reported that Watt did not participate in team practices Wednesday and Thursday, and practiced in a limited fashion Friday. The team said he was doubtful for Sunday’s game due to a calf injury and illness.
Atrial fibrillation is defined as an “irregular and often very rapid heartbeat that can cause blood clots to form in the heart,” according to the Mayo Clinic. If not treated properly, it can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications.
Watt had missed the first game of the year with a calf injury, but played the last two games. He is the author of the only two sacks for his team this season.
A three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Watt has 104 sacks since the start of his career.