Cardinals' Patrick Peterson: 'I am diabetic'

Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson said Monday he's battling diabetes and hinted that the disease may be to blame for his struggles last season.

Peterson said a blood sugar-related issue affected his play, but he was hesitant to provide details. Pressed for information, Peterson admitted the specifics of his diagnosis to Kent Somers of AZCentral.com.

"I am a diabetic. Let's just keep it that way," he said.

Peterson suggested his health has improved since the diagnosis.

"(Once) they found out what the problem was, they put their hands around the throat, wrangled it and we moved forward from it," Peterson said.

Peterson further clarified his status on his Twitter account Tuesday, assuring fans he's on the rebound:

I want to take a moment to address the media reports this morning regarding my health. While I did have abnormal sugar levels, I've been working with doctors on a strategic meal plan and workout routine that are reversing these symptoms. I’m grateful that this has been reversible for me and my health is back to normal. Thanks everyone for their concern and well wishes! Now back to my workouts and getting ready for the upcoming season!

Peterson earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2011 and 2013 but took a step back last season. At one point, after allowing Atlanta Falcons wideout Julio Jones to catch 10 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown, Peterson blamed himself for his team's loss.