The Denver Broncos have announced that a member of their coaching staff is currently battling cancer after a recent diagnosis.
Zack Grossi, who was promoted to passing game specialist this year after first joining the team as an offensive quality control coach in 2022, began chemotherapy this week after a yolk sac tumor was discovered in his chest .
Before the game against the LA Chargers on Sunday, Broncos head coach Sean Payton encouraged Grossi, 35, and insisted the team will support him “every step of the way.”
“Our unwavering support is with Zack and his family as he takes time to focus on his health,” Payton said. ‘Knowing what Zack is all about and talking to him since his diagnosis, I have no doubt he will fight like a Bronco.
“We will be with him every step of the way and we look forward to welcoming him back to our staff.”
Denver Broncos coach Zack Grossi has been diagnosed with cancer, the team announced
Grossi also spoke out following his diagnosis, revealing that his tumor is “highly treatable” in a positive statement despite admitting it is a “scary” situation.
‘I’ve been part of a team since I was 8 years old. “Now, as I begin my fight against cancer, I have found peace in knowing that I am not alone,” he said.
‘For the last three months I’ve been feeling a bit unwell and recently started having trouble breathing. Last week I went to the Broncos medical staff and they told me we needed to do several tests. They did blood work and a scan, and that’s when they found the tumor in my chest cavity.
‘Officially, I have been diagnosed with a yolk sac tumor.
‘The diagnosis is scary, but the good news is that it is very treatable. I started chemo this week and after a few more months of chemo, I will have surgery to remove the remaining tumor.
‘My approach is not that different from preparing for a match. I will stay the course, keep working and keep working. Day by day is my motto. I have marching orders from my doctors and I trust the process.’
While he doesn’t want to put a date on it, Grossi says he’s already looking forward to returning to his position with the Broncos.
Head coach Sean Payton says team will be with Grossi “every step of the way”
He ended his moving statement by saying, “To anyone who has recently been diagnosed or is currently battling cancer, I want you to find your team too.” And I want you to know that you are not fighting this alone. It’s about never giving up. That’s what Fight Like A Bronco is all about.
‘It is also incredibly important to me to encourage Broncos Country to prioritize early detection testing. If you feel something, trust it. Remember: not all cancers show up in your blood tests. Be sure to use the physical exams, blood tests, scans and tests that are available to you.
“And while I undergo treatment, I have only one goal in mind: eliminate this tumor and return to leading my family, helping raise our daughter and continuing my career.”