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Jul 16, 2026, 4:10 PM CUT

"I had a stroke": Bills legend Jim Kelly shares concerning health update after hospital visit

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 21: Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly on the field before the NFL American Football Herren USA game between the Indianapolis Colts and Buffalo Bills on October 21, 2018, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire) NFL: OCT 21 Bills at Colts PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxHUNxRUSxSWExNORxDENxONLY Icon1810210061

Jim Kelly, the former Buffalo Bills quarterback, has battled multiple forms of cancer over the years, becoming an inspiration through his recovery journey. In an interview on the NFL Network, he discussed one health setback he experienced recently.

The Hall of Fame QB Jim Kelly revealed a frightening health scare, which led to hospitalization. What seemed like a routine medical issue quickly escalated after doctors' further testing indicated that he had experienced a stroke.

"So, I wind up going in for an MRI, and they prescribed me some medicine, but it didn't help," said Jim Kelly on the NFL Network. "And all of a sudden, they said I had a stroke. And I'm like, are you kidding me? I mean this weekend and going through all that. Spent most of my time in bed, but you know, long story short, I'm here now. I'm better. I feel a lot better."

INGLEWOOD, CA - SEPTEMBER 08: Buffalo Bills former quarterback Jim Kelly looks on before the NFL, American Football Herren, USA game between the Buffalo Bills and the Los Angeles Rams on September 8, 2022, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire NFL: SEP 08 Bills at Rams Icon220908065

Kelly shared on the NFL Network YouTube post that he was in the lodge with his wife, two daughters, son-in-law, and first grandchild. He was having bad headaches and had migraines before, so he took medicine, but that did not help.

Since he was not able to bear the pain, he got an MRI and some medicines, which still didn't help him relax. It was then that the doctors told him, after his tests had been evaluated, that he had experienced a stroke.

Kelly was shocked when he learned he had suffered a stroke after the prescribed medications failed to improve his condition. After spending much of the weekend in bed, his condition is now better, and he is recovering.

The 66-year-old was admired for overcoming many health challenges. Since being diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013, he has undergone many surgeries and treatments while staying active in charitable efforts through Hunter's Hope Foundation.

The Bills legend was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in his upper jaw in 2013 and endured multiple recurrences along with reconstructive surgeries before ultimately being declared cancer-free.

While the recovery process will continue, Kelly seems positive and shows encouraging signs as he gave a reassuring message. He also recently commented on the Bills fans' frequent debate.

Jim Kelly defends Josh Allen's fearless playing style

The Buffalo Bills legend appeared on the recent episode of Good Morning Football. He said what many Bills fans have believed for years.

"Josh is Josh," said Kelly as per Good Morning Football X post. "That's what he does. He runs, he makes the big plays with his legs. And yeah, you want him to protect himself a little bit more, because he does take chances. But the thing is, that's him. That's the way he plays football, and I love it."

While his physical approach naturally raises health concerns, Kelly believes those risks are part of what makes Allen one of the NFL's most dangerous players.

Kelly suggested that his style is the big reason behind Buffalo's presence among the AFC's elite contenders.

What are your views on the shocking news of Jim Kelly? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote