Legendary NFL running back Barry Sanders said he experienced a “health scare” related to his heart.

“Over Father's Day weekend, I experienced a health scare related to my heart. It was unexpected and served as a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant about our physical well-being, even when we are feeling fine,” Sanders said in a statement.

“I am grateful for the amazing doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals for providing me with needed care. My family and I are thankful for your prayers and support during this time,” he continued.

“Per my doctors' recommendation, I am taking this opportunity to prioritize my health and well-being. I appreciate your understanding and continued support,” he added.

.@Lions @NFL @NFLPA @ProFootballHOF @HeismanTrophy @okstate pic.twitter.com/1fGb790PlK

— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) June 21, 2024

Per ESPN:

Sanders was a six-time All-Pro while starring for the Lions from 1989 to 1998 before his sudden retirement at age 31. One of the most electrifying players in league history, Sanders is fourth on the NFL's career rushing list with 15,269 yards in just 10 seasons, including 2,053 yards in his MVP season of 1997.

He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004.

Sanders spent his entire career with the Lions, who selected him with the third overall pick in the 1989 NFL draft after his Heisman Trophy-winning season with Oklahoma State.

Last season, the Lions unveiled a statue outside Ford Field of Sanders, the first player in franchise history to receive such an honor.

“Get well soon Barry,” the Detroit Lions stated on social media.

🙏 @BarrySanders pic.twitter.com/GDwaLN7NRC

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) June 21, 2024

“NFL Legend Barry Sanders suffers ‘unexpected health scare' related to his heart. He received at least 2 doses of a COVID-19 mRNA injection, which are proven to cause cardiovascular adverse events,” the McCullough Foundation stated.

JUST IN – NFL Legend Barry Sanders suffers 'unexpected health scare' related to his heart. He received at least 2 doses of a COVID-19 mRNA injection, which are proven to cause cardiovascular adverse events:https://t.co/UkGHAdddyIhttps://t.co/CgwusFa3SC… pic.twitter.com/lgT296wOZg

— McCullough Foundation (@McCulloughFund) June 22, 2024

“Despite being double vaccinated, wearing a mask, and taking all the precautions I could… I tested positive for COVID. I don't have any symptoms, but am staying in until I get the green light from the Docs. I will be ready to go for @49ers on 9/12,” Sanders wrote in August 2021.

Despite being double vaccinated, wearing a mask, and taking all the precautions I could… I tested positive for COVID. I don't have any symptoms, but am staying in until I get the green light from the Docs. I will be ready to go for @49ers on 9/12 @Lions @NFL pic.twitter.com/K13d32wEzv

— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) August 20, 2021