Bernie Kosar Calls Himself a ‘Walking Miracle’ After Liver Transplant Discharge
Bernie Kosar described himself and his current circumstances as a “walking miracle” on Monday after the Browns legend was discharged from University Hospital, a week after he had a prosperous liver transplant.
His release from the hospital came a day before his 62nd birthday.
“There was no way I thought I was going to be here for my 62nd birthday,” Kosar told reporters at a news conference on Monday, per Cleveland.com. “There was no way I thought I was going to be healthy, let alone walking out of here.”
“I feel like a walking miracle,” he added.
Kosar will be on a routine follow-up program at University Hospital, which will include blood testing on a weekly basis, Dr. Zoe Lewis, who performed the liver transplant, said.
The Browns legend had revealed he was dealing with liver failure and needed a transplant in a July 2024 interview with Cleveland Magazine and had been put on the transplant list in the spring of that year.
The liver that Kosar received during the Nov. 17 transplant surgery came from 21-year-old Brye Dunlap, who had died from complications of an anoxic brain injury the day prior.
The family of Dunlap, who was a Browns fan, was given the option to make a directed donation and after selecting Kosar, the organ was confirmed to be a match.
“We are so happy for Bernie being released so he can continue to recover in comfort,” DunlapS family said.
Bernie Kosar Reveals Serious Health Battle, Steps Away From Browns Role
Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar has revealed he’s been battling a “notable health issue” that has required him to step away from his role as a radio analyst for the team.
Kosar, 60, told The Cleveland Plain Dealer he’s been dealing with a “very serious” medical problem for the past several months, but declined to disclose the specific nature of his illness, citing privacy concerns. he did say it’s not COVID-related.
“I’m dealing with a significant health issue,” kosar said. “I’m not going to get into specifics, but I’m going to focus on my health right now. I’m very grateful for the support of my family and friends.”
Kosar has been a fixture in the Cleveland sports scene since leading the Browns to three AFC Championship Games in the late 1980s. He rejoined the team as a radio analyst in 2018 and has been a popular voice for fans.
The Browns announced Kosar’s temporary departure on Monday,stating he would be taking time away to focus on his health.
“We wish Bernie all the best in his recovery and look forward to having him back with us when he’s able,” the team said in a statement.
Kosar’s former teammate, Hanford Dixon, told the Plain Dealer he spoke with Kosar recently and said he sounded positive despite his health challenges.
“he’s a tough guy,” Dixon said. “He’ll get through this. He’s a fighter.”
## Bernie Kosar Reveals He Feels Late Father’s Presence Amid Health Struggles
Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar recently shared a deeply personal update on his health and his emotional connection to his late father, following a period of medical challenges. Kosar, a beloved figure in Cleveland, has been recovering from two “aggressive procedures” to stop internal bleeding, and publicly requested prayers earlier this month.
### A Profound Connection
In an interview with 3News,Kosar spoke emotionally about his father,stating,”I’m trying not to cry,first. I love him. Yes, he’s looking down on me, and I’m so thankful for that. But he’s also within me. I feel him within me. I know that sounds corny or out there; I feel him within me. There’s more than me in me now.There’s no doubt about that. I just love him and his family. You matter.” This revelation highlights the deep emotional impact of his recent health scare and the comfort he finds in remembering his father.
### Recent Health Challenges
Kosar’s health situation became public knowledge earlier in November 2025 when he took to social media to ask for prayers following the procedures to address internal bleeding. Details regarding the cause of the bleeding have not been publicly disclosed.
### Legacy in Cleveland and Beyond
Bernie Kosar holds a special place in the hearts of Cleveland Browns fans. He led the team to three AFC Championship games in 1986, 1987, and 1989, becoming a symbol of hope during a period of rebuilding for the franchise. While he didn’t secure a Super Bowl victory with the Browns, he later won a Super Bowl ring as a member of the Dallas Cowboys in the 1993 season. [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/K/KosaBe00.htm](https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/K/KosaBe0
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