Patriots legend Randy Moss opens up about cancer diagnosis

New England Patriots legend Randy Moss announced that he is being treated for cancer and recovering from major surgery.

Concern for Moss grew when he revealed on Sunday NFL Countdown on December 1 that he was struggling with health issues. Days later, ESPN announced that the 47-year-old would be taking a leave of absence from broadcasting.

During an appearance on Instagram Live on Friday, Moss, supported by a cane, introduced himself as a cancer survivor and thanked his “prayer warriors” for their support, according to Zach Allen of the Associated Press.

“Moss said a cancerous mass was found in his bile duct, between his pancreas and liver,” Allen wrote. “He said he had surgery to put a stent in his liver on Thanksgiving and then had a six-hour procedure to remove the cancer about a week ago. He said he was in the hospital for six days and was discharged on Friday.”

The Pro Football Hall of Famer revealed that he underwent a Whipple procedure, which involved removing the head of the pancreas, portions of the small intestine, gallbladder and bile duct.

“I didn’t think I would ever be in a position like this, as healthy as I thought I was,” Moss said, according to the AP.

Moss said he will undergo radiation and chemotherapy and continued to thank fans for their prayers and support. The ESPN NFL analyst noted his goal is to get back on television. The former All-Pro wide receiver wore a “Team Moss” hoodie and asked for donations on his website. The money would primarily go to cancer research.