Russell Wilson Prays For Jesse Williams After Cancer Reveal: Seahawks Defensive Tackle Diagnosed With Papillary Type 2 Cancer

Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson sent out a touching message to defensive tackle Jesse Williams after it was revealed the Australian athlete was diagnosed with Papillary Type 2 cancer. Williams has a positive outlook, as displayed by his social media posts, and will undergo kidney surgery, the official Seahawks website wrote.

Williams, who has been with the team for three years, issued an official statement through the Seahawks. “Although disappointing, I am a fighter and will handle this,” he said. “I am going to focus on my health and fighting this battle with a return to football as my ultimate goal. Thank you for your thoughts and support. Go, Hawks!”

General Manager John Schneider added: “Jesse is an extraordinarily tough individual who has overcome a great deal in his life and we will support him in any way possible. He is in our thoughts and prayers.”

Williams, 24, has posted multiple Instagram and Twitter updates since his diagnosis. “I am not what happened to me, I am what I Choose to Become,” he said in one message. “Fire is the test of gold; adversity, of strong men. Appreciate the Support From all Over the World! Ready for What's Coming, Recovery is up next…,” he said in another. More than 1,200 of his 16,200 followers liked his post.

Like Wilson, many of Williams’ fans sent cyber well-wishes. “Praying for you man!!! You'll get out of this!! Be strong!” one person wrote. “Praying for a healthy & speedy recovery Jessie! God Bless,” another shared.

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