Arizona Cardinals quarterbacks coach Freddie Kitchens has been released from the hospital after undergoing emergency surgery to repair his aorta, the team announced on Monday.
Breer: Who's really in charge?
When it comes to building an NFL roster, hierarchies vary from team to team. Albert Breer reveals all 32 power structures. **More ...**
Kitchens was hospitalized last week after he fell ill at a Cardinals practice. A defect in his aorta was discovered that could have been fatal.
The Cardinals' official team site reported that Kitchens was expected to return to his coaching duties at some point during training camp, but likely would be limited at first.
The 38-year-old Kitchens released a statement Monday in which he thanked the Cardinals medical staff and local medical professionals for helping to save his life.
"Looking back, I have no doubt -- none whatsoever -- that I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for the those people. I've played or coached football my whole life so I can definitely appreciate teamwork and a smooth, efficient operation but the work those doctors, nurses and medical personnel do is just incredible. Again, I wouldn't be alive without them. I'm overwhelmed by the prayers and kindness everyone has sent my way; from the Cardinals, throughout the NFL, in Arizona, Alabama and everywhere else. I realize how truly fortunate I am and the blessing I have been given."