Former Cleveland Browns star running back Peyton Hillis was hospitalized in critical condition, according to multiple reports. The 36-year-old was saving his children from drowning in the ocean.

While Peyton’s children are reportedly OK, it is unclear how he was injured in the incident.

Greg Hillis, who is reportedly Peyton’s uncle, posted an update regarding his status on Thursday.

Also Read | NHL All-Star game 2023: List of players participating

“I just wanted to let everyone know on Razorback Nation that Peyton is doing better,” he wrote. “He’s still in intensive care and having some problems with his kidneys and lungs but the doctors say he is improving. I just wanted to head off any rumors that may be started. I’m sure he would want everyone to know that he appreciates all of the prayers being thrown up on his behalf.”

According to TMZ, Hillis was in Pensacola, Florida, when the accident happened. He was helicoptered to the hospital and remains unconscious in the ICU.

The circumstances surrounding the accident remains unclear.

The 6-foot-1, 250-pound fullback had his best season in 2010 when he ran for 1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns. He caught 61 passes for 477 yards and two more scores for the Browns.

Peyton, who entered the league in 2008, played through the 2014 season. He also had stints with Denver, Kansas City and the New York Giants.

Also Read | Lisa Rinna: Age, husband Harry Hamlin, daughters Delilah and Amelia, family, net worth

Peyton played in 81 NFL games over 8 seasons with the Browns, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs and New York Giants.

In 2021, Hillis made his acting debut in the horror movie The Hunting, directed by Mark Andrew Hamer.