Cardinals' J.J. Watt Playing Against Panthers After Heart Procedure
2 min read • October 02, 2022
Arizona Cardinals defensive end J.J. Watt revealed on Twitter Sunday morning that he underwent a heart procedure this week, but will play against Carolina.
Watt said he experienced atrial fibrillation – A-fib – on Wednesday, then had his heart shocked on Thursday.
It is not a dangerous procedure and he carries little to no risk this week and beyond, according to the Pro Football Docs.
Atrial fibrillation occurs when a heart gets out of rhythm, but can be easily corrected with a shock, or electrical signal, to reset the heart to the correct rhythm.
The Arizona Cardinals medical staff deserves credit for coordinating Watt's procedure and having him clear all the necessary tests and hurdled required for him to travel to Carolina and be active against the Panthers.
His lingering calf strain will likely affect him more than the heart issue this week.
A-fib procedures are not uncommon in pro sports. Atlanta Braves closer Kenley Jansen has undergone three procedures in his career to fix an irregular heartbeat.
