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Former 'Madden' cover athlete in hospital after rescuing his kids
Former NFL running back Peyton Hillis John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports

Former 'Madden' cover athlete in hospital after rescuing his kids

By Michael C. Davenport  |  Last updated 1/8/23

Former NFL running back Peyton Hillis is reportedly in critical condition after saving his children from drowning in Florida. In a week when the Damar Hamlin story captivated millions, the former Arkansas Razorback's story merits attention, too. 

At Arkansas, Hillis played behind Felix Jones and two-time All-American Darren McFadden but did enough to get noticed by NFL scouts.

In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Broncos selected Hillis in the seventh round. After two underwhelming seasons in Denver, the Broncos traded him to Cleveland.

In 2010, Hillis captured the attention of the football world. The overlooked running back erupted for 1,177 yards rushing and 477 yards receiving. Then he earned his place on the cover of EA Sports' "Madden NFL 12."

Per Bleacher Report, Hillis is the only "Madden" cover athlete who never made an All-Pro team or the Pro Bowl. 

Hillis never had another season like 2010, and by the end of the 2014 season, he was out of the league.

Hillis’ determination, hustle and heart defines not only his playing career but his life outside the lines, too.

As he fights his battle for health, the football world and many others hope for the best. 

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