KJ Hamler shares details of mild medical condition and updates plan with Broncos
With the start of NFL training camps underway around the league, one former Penn State wide receiver finds himself in a bit of a unique roster situation with his NFL team. KJ Hamler, who has confirmed he has been diagnosed with a mild heart irritation, will reportedly be waived by the Denver Broncos, but it appears the Broncos are not ready to totally give up on the former Nittany Lion.
According to a report from NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo, the Broncos intend to waive Hamler as a roster move designed more for getting a player on the roster that can participate in training camp and potentially the preseason while Hamler continues with a treatment plan. Garafolo suggested the Broncos intend to keep Hamler as part of their roster in the long run. So, as far as Hamler’s situation with the Broncos, that appears to be promising.
The #Broncos need a roster spot with both K.J. Hamler and Tim Patrick (Achilles) sidelined. Putting him on reserve/NFI would’ve knocked him out for the season. Waiving him leaves open the possibility of his return. He has a chance to be back on the field early in the season.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) July 31, 2023
On his Instagram account on Monday afternoon, Hamler confirmed the details of his medical situation by saying he was diagnosed with a mild heart irritation called pericarditis. Hamler was checked out by doctors after feeling chest pains while working out prior to the start of the Broncos training camp.
“I will be back on the field — better and stronger than ever — as soon as possible this season,” Hamler said in his statement on his Instagram account. “I feel great physically and this is very frustrating for me to deal with.”
“I’m so grateful for my teammates & coaches,” Hamler went on to say. “Appreciate the support from the Broncos Country and encouragement I have been receiving.”
Hamler’s update on Instagram received warm wishes from former Penn State players like Saquon Barkley, Joey Porter Jr., and current Nittany Lion Kalen King.
“I’m already knowing how you boutta shake back,” King said in a comment on Hamler’s Instagram post.
Hamler is entering his fourth season in the NFL, but he has played in just 10 games total over the past two seasons due to injury issues. Hamler has 42 career receptions for 620 yards and three touchdowns, all with the Broncos.
Hamler ended his Penn State career with 1,658 receiving yards and 13 receiving touchdowns. He also accounted for 1,036 kickoff return and 222 punt return yards during his time with the Nittany Lions.
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