Boston College's Mark Herzlich Has Cancer, Will Fight 'Toughest Opponent'

Mark Herzlich, the Boston College junior linebacker who was the ACC defensive player of the year in 2008, revealed Thursday that he has cancer.

Herzlich, who could have been a first-round NFL draft pick but chose instead to stay in school for his senior season in 2009, said that he found out this week he has Ewing's Sarcoma, a malignant tumor found in bone or soft tissue.

Herzlich released the following statement through Boston College:

"This past week, I got some news nobody wants to hear. After undergoing some tests to determine the cause of some pain I had been experiencing in my leg, I learned that I have Ewing's Sarcoma.

"Obviously, I was shocked. I had been extremely focused on preparing for my senior season at Boston College and for life beyond that. Now, I must channel all that energy into facing my toughest opponent yet, and that is exactly what I will do.

"I have returned to Pennsylvania to be near my family and to undergo a series of tests that will help my doctors determine the best course of treatment. I will keep you informed about my progress, but for now, I would like to ask for privacy as my family and I make some tough decisions.

"At this point, I do not know what this means for my football future, but I am determined to rid my body of this disease so that I can put that uniform back on. Thank you in advance for your prayers and concern. Together, we will fight this and win."

It is not known at this time what Herzlich's long-term prognosis is.