Mike Heimerdinger to coach this weekend before undergoing cancer treatment
According to a report released by the Associated Press (AP) on Thursday 25 November, Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger has rejoined the team and will undertake his play-calling duties this Sunday against the Houston Texans, before
leaving the squad to undergo cancer treatment.
Titans coach Jeff Fished stated on Thursday that his offensive coordinator consulted with his doctors on Wednesday night, and that Heimerdinger will begin his treatment on Monday 29 November.
“So obviously he feels good enough to finish up this week and call the game, so we’re very, very excited for that and to have him back and keep him involved,” Fisher said, according to the AP. “We’re praying for him, and it’s been a very, very emotional day,
but it’s been great to get him back. Guys were happy to see him this morning.”
Heimerdinger has refrained from speaking with the media this week. After returning to practice, he was greeted with a pat on the back from Titans defensive back Cortland Finnegan.
“It means a lot for him to come out here,” Finnegan told the media. “Dealing with what he’s dealing with, it speaks volumes the kind of man he is.”
Fisher, meanwhile, concluded that Heimerdinger is fervent about football and that, as both his job and passion, the sport gives him an opportunity to take his mind off of his circumstances.
“He understands now what’s ahead,” Fisher said of his offensive coordinator. “He’s got a tremendous fight ahead of him. At least he knows what to prepare for and when to prepare for it so that speaks volumes of his commitment to this organization.”
Even though they will be facing off against each other this weekend, Texans coach Gary Kubiak, a long-time friend of Heimerdinger, had nothing but optimism and kind words for his contemporary.
“You just pray for him that hopefully some positive things happen along the way, but he was very upbeat,” Kubiak, who said he recently spoke to Heimerdinger, told reporters after Thursday’s practice. “I just wish Mike the best and say a lot of prayers for him.
He’s a great person. It’s very tough, but Mike’s a tough guy, too.”
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