It’s been a challenging few weeks for former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, but there’s finally a hopeful turn in his story. Just a week after undergoing a liver transplant, Kosar is heading home, and he’s taking a moment to reflect on the journey that brought him here.

On Monday, Nov. 24, Kosar shared on social media that he would be discharged from the hospital later that day. The 61-year-old spent over a year on a waiting list, hoping for a liver transplant, and last week, that hope became a reality. In his post, Kosar also gave a nod to the Browns, celebrating their 24-10 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, while thanking everyone for their prayers and support.

"Blessed to be getting discharged today, and appreciative of all the support that’s carried me to this point," he wrote. "Just in time for my birthday tmrw!"

Originally, Kosar wasn’t expected to leave the hospital until next month. At a press conference at University Hospitals, he explained that his five-hour surgery went so well that he was able to have his breathing tube removed almost immediately afterward. He added, "I’m walking out of here overwhelmed with gratitude. The love, prayers, and support have carried me to this moment. Thank you to everyone who’s given, checked in, or simply believed. U Matter, and now the real work begins."

Kosar’s transplant was made possible by the generosity of 21-year-old Browns fan Bryce Dunlap, who tragically passed away due to a medical emergency. "That's probably the biggest struggle of it right now. We're still doing this with heavy hearts with what happened with Bryce Dunlap and his family," Kosar told ESPN. "I can't tell ya how much my thoughts and prayers are with you. I can't thank you enough. I'm not taking this gift for granted."

While Kosar couldn’t go into full detail during his press conference, he spoke about Dunlap and his family’s sacrifice. "Rest assured, this is something that will never be forgotten," he said. For Browns fans, Kosar is more than just a name on the roster; he played for the team for nine seasons from 1985 to 1993 after being the No. 1 pick in the 1985 Supplemental Draft. During his time in Cleveland, he threw for 21,904 yards, 116 touchdowns, and maintained a 58.8% completion rate, leading the Browns to three AFC Championship Games in 1986, 1987, and 1989.

Kosar’s career highlights include a Pro Bowl selection in 1987 at the age of 24. After leaving Cleveland, he went on to play three seasons with the Miami Dolphins and a final season with the Dallas Cowboys. His legacy on the field is clear, but now, his focus is fully on recovery.

"I want to think about things that are helpful," Kosar said. "It sounds like I’m getting on a soapbox here, but I visualize good health. It’s not so much that I’m trying to sell it to myself, or that I’m in denial, as it is choosing to be positive. Because everybody’s got something."

Now, as Kosar begins his road to recovery, he carries the gratitude of a second chance, the love of fans, and the memory of a young donor who made it possible. Readers can’t help but wonder: what’s next for Bernie Kosar, on and off the field?

Written by

Mohd Mudabbir Ansari

Edited by

Joyita Das