BJ Thompson, the Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive lineman, has been discharged from the hospital after experiencing a cardiac arrest last week. According to his agent, Thompson, 25, suffered seizures and then went into cardiac arrest during a special teams meeting at the Chiefs’ practice facility.
He was given sedation and put on a ventilator overnight to aid his breathing. Fortunately, Thompson regained consciousness on Friday and was subsequently removed from the ventilator.
Thompson’s family expressed their gratitude for the prayers and the quick response from the Chiefs’ medical and training staff. His agent, Chris Turnage, emphasized the importance of the immediate medical care provided by the team’s personnel, which was crucial in stabilizing Thompson’s condition.
Rick Burkholder, the Chiefs’ vice president of sports medicine and performance, credited kicker Harrison Butker with quickly alerting the medical team about Thompson’s emergency. Thompson received initial treatment from athletic trainers and a team doctor before fire department personnel took over. This prompt action was vital in managing the critical situation.
Thompson, who was drafted by the Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2023 draft from Stephen F. Austin, had played in one game during his rookie season, recording two tackles. He was in cardiac arrest for approximately one to one and a half minutes before being transported to a local hospital.