Houston Texans safety Andre Hal announced on Friday that he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Hal was first diagnosed by the team physician, and is now seeking testing and treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center. The Texans safety was drafted by the team with the first pick of the seventh round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Hal had two interceptions and two forced fumbles last season for Houston, and started all 16 games. Andre released a statement on Friday.

 “My faith in God and the support from my family, friends, teammates and coaches will see me through this difficult time. I will not let this diagnosis stop me from fulfilling my dreams and I do not want anyone to feel sorry for me. I know how to beat this and I will beat it.”

Head coach Bill O'Brien released a statement about Hal's diagnosis.

“The news of Andre Hal’s diagnosis weighs heavy on the hearts of everyone in the Houston Texans family. Andre epitomizes what it means to be a Houston Texan through his leadership, community involvement and team-first attitude. We are confident that Andre’s resiliency and infectious positivity, along with treatment and care from the best medical community in the world, will guide him through his recovery. The entire Texans organization is behind Andre and his family during this difficult time and we look forward to his eventual return to the team.”

The Texans signed safety Tyrann Mathieu this offseason and drafted safety Justin Reid out of Stanford with their first draft pick which was in the third round due to the Brock Osweiler trade, and the Texans moving up in the 2017 NFL Draft to select QB Deshaun Watson.  Perhaps the team knew Hal was dealing with some health issues, and brought in more depth at the position this offseason. It's also possible that Reid was drafted simply because he was the best player on the board, and happened to fall all the way to the third round. 

The McNair family also released a statement.

“We are saddened to learn of Andre’s diagnosis. Andre is tough and faithful and we believe he is prepared to win this fight. The McNair family as well as the entire Texans organization will continue to be there for him, love and support him, and pray for his recovery.”