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A trip to the urgent care likely saved Russell Okung’s life last month.
The Charges left tackle reveled on Twitter that he experienced unusual chest pains during a June 1 practice, and as a precaution he went to an urgent care clinic where it was revealed he suffered a pulmonary embolism caused by blood clots.
Had the former Oklahoma State standout waited to get treated, it could have been fatal.
“When detected early, this condition is very treatable and I’m grateful to have access to the best available care as I continue on the path to full recovery,” Okung wrote in his statement.
”I’m very grateful to my teammates, coaches and the entire Chargers organization for their care, support and understanding during this challenging situation. Thanks to an incredible medical team and a very supportive family, I hope to be back on the field as quickly as possible.”
Statement on Reported Injury Status pic.twitter.com/MjV52jqESL
— Russell Okung (@RussellOkung) July 25, 2019
The Chargers placed the 31-year-old Okung on the active, non-football illness list, meaning he still counts toward the 90-man roster.
Russell Okung, who revealed he suffered a pulmonary embolism caused by blood clots in June, goes through team stretch with the offense. Okung has not been cleared for full practice. pic.twitter.com/4hUqt425Tn
— Eric Williams (@eric_d_williams) July 25, 2019
After being a two-time first-time All-American at OSU, Okung was selected sixth overall in the 2010 NFL draft by the Seahawks. He played six seasons with Seattle — highlighted by winning Super Bowl XLVII — before signing a one-year deal with the Broncos in 2016. He signed a four-year, $53 million contract as a free agent with the Chargers in 2017.