Damien Woody Hospitalized for Appendix and Colon Removal, Urges Health Checkups

Former NFL player Damien Woody revealed that he was recently hospitalized for the removal of his appendix and a portion of his colon. The two-time Super Bowl champion, who played for the New England Patriots and New York Jets, shared his experience on social media, emphasizing the importance of regular health screenings.

Woody, 48, urged his followers to "get your checkups," stating, "Life is too short and too precious." He expressed gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Morristown Medical Center for their care during his ordeal and recovery.

This health update comes after a period of professional change for Woody. Earlier this year, he concluded a 15-year tenure with ESPN when his contract was not renewed. He had been a regular on various ESPN programs since 2011, including SportsCenter, NFL Live, and Get Up.

Woody's departure from ESPN followed a series of cuts at the network. He noted that working on television after overcoming a speech impediment was one of his proudest accomplishments. He has since joined "The OG Football Show" on YouTube with former ESPN colleagues Trey Wingo, Mark Schlereth, and Merril Hoge, stating his continued desire to "talk ball."

Woody was reportedly on a lucrative contract with ESPN, which had made significant efforts to retain him four years prior when FS1 attempted to recruit him for a morning show. Despite these efforts, his contract was ultimately not renewed.