Texans Safety Andre Hal Diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma

Houston Texans safety Andre Hal has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. 

"My faith in God and the support from my family, friends, teammates and coaches will see me through this difficult time," Hal said in a statement through the team on Friday. "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."

Hal, 26, joined the Texans as a seventh-round pick in 2014. Since then, he's steadily climbed the depth chart and emerged as a staple in Houston's secondary. 

Last season, he tallied 71 total tackles, five pass breakups, a career-high three interceptions and two forced fumbles while playing the second-most defensive snaps on the team. 

"Andre epitomizes what it means to be a Houston Texan through his leadership, community involvement and team-first attitude," head coach Bill O'Brien said. "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."