BJ Thompson, a defensive end for the Kansas City Chiefs, suffered a seizure and went into cardiac arrest during a team meeting on June 6, as reported by the NFL Network and ESPN. The team’s medical staff responded quickly and an ambulance was called to the scene. Thompson, who is 25 years old, is listed in stable condition following the incident. The team canceled all offseason training activities for June 6 and head coach Andy Reid and select players rescheduled their media session to the next day.
Thompson, who will be entering his second NFL season in 2024, was drafted in the fifth round in 2023 out of Stephen F. Austin State University. Standing at six-foot-six and weighing 243 pounds, he played in one game last season, recording two tackles in the Chiefs’ Week 18 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. The Arkansas native is currently undergoing treatment and recovery following the medical emergency that occurred during the team meeting. The Chiefs are providing updates on Thompson’s condition and have yet to provide further details on the incident.
The Kansas City Chiefs players are currently participating in a voluntary offseason program, with mandatory minicamp scheduled to open on June 11. The team has been preparing for the upcoming season as they aim to secure their unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl appearance. Recently, the team visited the White House to celebrate their past season’s championship victory. Despite the brief interruption caused by the medical emergency involving Thompson, the team continues to focus on their goals and achievements for the upcoming season.
NBC News has reached out to the Chiefs for comment on the situation involving BJ Thompson, who remains in stable condition following the seizure and cardiac arrest during the team meeting. The team’s medical staff and first responders acted swiftly to address the emergency, and Thompson is currently receiving medical treatment and care. The Chiefs have also provided support and updates to the public regarding Thompson’s condition as fans and the NFL community await further news on his recovery. The incident highlights the importance of health and safety protocols in professional sports.
Thompson’s draft selection in 2023 marked the beginning of his NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he has shown promise on the field despite his limited playing time in his rookie season. As he continues to recover from the medical emergency, Thompson’s teammates and coaches are rallying around him for support and encouragement. The team’s focus remains on the upcoming season and their aspirations for another successful run towards the Super Bowl. The Chiefs organization is known for its camaraderie and commitment to taking care of their players in times of need, further showcasing the bond within the team.
The cancellation of offseason training activities for June 6 allowed the team to regroup and address the situation involving BJ Thompson, while also giving players the opportunity to process the incident and provide support for their teammate. The rescheduled media session the following day allowed head coach Andy Reid and select players to address the situation and provide updates to the media and fans. As the Chiefs continue their preparations for the upcoming season, the focus remains on Thompson’s recovery and well-being, showcasing the team’s dedication to their players both on and off the field. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks and challenges faced by athletes in professional sports, highlighting the importance of health and safety measures in ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved.
