Jesse Williams, Seahawks DT, Diagnosed with Papillary Type 2 Cancer

Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Jesse Williams announced May 18 that he has been diagnosed with papillary Type 2 cancer, which required him to undergo surgery. 

Continue for updates. 

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Williams Able to Begin Working Out

Thursday, June 11

Williams took to Instagram Thursday to announce an encouraging step in his recovery:

In a May 25 statement, per a news release through the Seahawks' official website, Williams said, "Although disappointing, I am a fighter and will handle this. I am going to focus on my health and fighting this battle with a return to football as my ultimate goal. Thank you for your thoughts and support. Go Hawks!"

On May 29, Williams posted on Instagram after undergoing surgery.

Seahawks general manager John Schneider also spoke about Williams' situation.

"Jesse is an extraordinarily tough individual who has overcome a great deal in his life, and we will support him in any way possible. He is in our thoughts and prayers," he said, via the release.

Williams is a 2013 fifth-round pick who has already dealt with considerable adversity in his young NFL career. The 24-year-old missed all of the past two seasons due to knee injuries, unable to contribute a single down as a pro after racking up 37 total tackles in his final year of college at Alabama.

Cecil Hurt of the Tuscaloosa News emphasized how the Crimson Tide community will be behind Williams as he works toward recovery:

The Seahawks had waived Williams in March after his injury-plagued two years with the team but then re-signed him on April 1.

Williams has not wavered in pursuit of his NFL dream despite unforeseeable setbacks in the recent past. The Australian native seems to have a similar attitude regarding his cancer diagnosis, and it's evident that Seattle still believes in him.