Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Jesse Williams is slated to undergo kidney surgery after being diagnosed with Papillary Type 2 cancer.
Williams was selected in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Seahawks, but did not see the field in 2014.
"Although disappointing, I am a fighter and will handle this," Williams said via the team's official website. "I am going to focus on my health and fighting this battle with a return to football as my ultimate goal. Thank you for your thoughts and support. Go Hawks!"
Seahawks general manager John Schneider also released a statement via the team's website.
"Jesse is an extraordinarily tough individual who has overcome a great deal in his life and we will support him in any way possible. He is in our thoughts and prayers."