The University of Arkansas football team said Friday that former Razorbacks star and ex-NFL running back Peyton Hillis is “doing better” as he remains hospitalized after a swimming accident in Pensacola, Florida on Wednesday.
“Thinking about our man @thepeytonhillis,” the Razorbacks tweeted Friday. “Encouraged to learn he’s doing better after his heroic act saving his family.”
Dramatic photos from the incident show lifeguards and medics tending to Willis on the beach. Other photos show lifeguard trucks near the shore with people surrounding a stretcher carrying Willis.
A helicopter and ambulances eventually arrived to the scene, with the chopper landing on the road before transporting Hillis to a local hospital, according to TMZ.
The 36-year-old reportedly remains unconscious and in intensive care after saving his two kids from drowning at the beach. Willis shares the children with his ex-wife, Amanda.
Another adult reportedly was taken to the hospital via ambulance. The two kids did not require medical attention.
“I just wanted to let everyone know on Razorback Nation that Peyton is doing better,” Peyton’s uncle, Greg Hillis, wrote on his Facebook page Thursday. “He’s still in intensive care and having some problems with his kidneys and his lungs but the doctors say he is improving.
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“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 thrown up on his behalf!!!”
As of Thursday, Hillis was on a ventilator, according to Fox24 anchor Alyssa Orange, who covers the Razorbacks.
Hillis was a fullback at Arkansas from 2004-2007 and was known for his blocking and receiving prowess. He was drafted in the seventh round by the Broncos and spent two seasons in Denver before stints with the Browns, Chiefs, and Giants.
Hillis was released by the Giants in the 2015 offseason and later retired.
For his career, Hillis had 2,832 rushing yards and averaged 4.1 yards per carry. He also had 1,050 receiving yards and scored 26 total touchdowns.
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