Broncos Linebacker Alex Singleton Reveals Testicular Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — In a deeply emotional team meeting on Monday morning, Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton shared news that stunned teammates and coaches alike: he had undergone surgery three days earlier to remove a cancerous tumor from one of his testicles. The 31-year-old veteran had kept the diagnosis private, confiding only in his family, a few close friends, and select team officials until now.

“Cancer is a scary word — still is, still freaks me out just saying it,” Singleton said during a virtual press conference with local reporters, his voice reflecting both vulnerability and determination.

Singleton first disclosed the diagnosis in a statement on social media before speaking publicly about the experience. What began as a routine, league-mandated drug test before the Broncos’ Nov. 2 game against the Houston Texans unexpectedly became a life-altering moment when results showed elevated levels of the hormone hCG — a marker sometimes associated with testicular cancer.

Unsure what to make of the finding, Singleton immediately sought medical evaluation. After a series of scans and consultations, he was informed last Monday that a tumor in his testicle was malignant. Surgery was scheduled for that Friday — just one day after Denver’s primetime matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.

1. Playing Through Fear and Pain

Despite the diagnosis, Singleton made a decision few could fathom: he suited up for the Broncos on Thursday night. With only a handful of teammates and staff aware of his situation, he recorded nine tackles in Denver’s hard-fought 10–7 victory over the Raiders that pushed their record to 8–2. After the game, Singleton smiled and joked with reporters in the locker room, showing no outward sign of what he was about to face. “A couple of them knew before surgery,” he said later. “They care so much about my health… it means a lot.” Singleton’s grit didn’t surprise his teammates. “Ultimate competitor, ultimate team player,” said fellow linebacker Justin Strnad. “He’s going to overcome it, and we’re all going to be here for him.” The performance mirrored Singleton’s reputation as one of the toughest players in the league. Just last season, he played more than three quarters of a game with a torn ACL. This time, however, the battle was personal — one that could not be fought with tape and toughness alone.

2. Recovery and Optimism Ahead

Singleton said Monday that initial post-surgery results were encouraging, offering a measure of relief after an emotionally turbulent week. A CT scan conducted before his operation showed no evidence that the cancer had spread, which doctors described as a “very positive sign.” The linebacker underwent a less invasive procedure than initially expected, a factor that could speed up his rehabilitation process and allow him to return to football activities sooner than anticipated. Team medical staff and head coach Sean Payton are collaborating closely with Singleton’s doctors to develop a plan tailored to his recovery timeline. Although Singleton will miss the upcoming matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the team’s bye week that follows could serve as a natural buffer before his next potential return date. “I should recover pretty quickly from this surgery and get up and running here pretty soon,” Singleton said. “It feels good that, optimistically, it’s not going to be four, five, six weeks.” Throughout the process, Singleton has leaned on his inner circle for support. He spent the weekend at home with his wife, Sam, and their 9-month-old daughter, processing the emotional toll of the diagnosis. “A lot of time sitting on the couch… going through the emotions of the whole thing,” he said. Even as he recovers, teammates describe Singleton as upbeat and fully engaged in the team’s success, often sending encouraging messages and staying in touch with linebackers coach Greg Manusky. Known for wearing his “positive vibes only” sweatshirt around the Broncos’ facility, Singleton said he’s determined to live that mantra more than ever. He emphasized that the experience has given him new perspective on both football and life. “It really puts things into perspective — how fragile everything is,” he said. “Football is what I love, but right now, the goal is to get healthy and be there for my family and my teammates when they need me most.”

3. Using His Story to Help Others

Singleton said he plans to use his platform to encourage others — particularly men — to prioritize regular medical screenings and overcome the stigma around testicular cancer. “I want to be forthcoming about it so people know that talking about it matters,” he said. “There shouldn’t be a big stigma behind it — there’s nothing wrong with it.” The linebacker admitted that he had avoided doctor visits in the past out of fear, but hopes his story will inspire others to act sooner. “Don’t be afraid of the doctor,” he said. “I was for a long time.” Singleton also emphasized that early detection saved him from a potentially more dangerous diagnosis. By taking immediate action after his abnormal drug test results, doctors were able to remove the tumor before it spread. As the Broncos continue their season, Singleton’s courage and candor have already made an impact far beyond football. His message — one of resilience, humility, and hope — now serves as a reminder that some victories happen off the field.