Reports are now circulating that Star Lotulelei, Utah’s Defensive tackle, will not work out in this year’s NFL Scouting Combine after he was diagnosed with still unidentified heart disease.
Chris Mortensen, an ESPN insider, in his official Tweeter account said Lotulelei learned about his condition during the players’ physicals held in Indianapolis putting Lotulelei’s football career in a great test before it even started.
“Utah DT Star Lotulelei, projected top five 5 draft pick, will not work out after echocardiogram detected heart condition. Filed to ESPN,” Mortensen tweeted Sunday evening.
However, Mike Garafolo, a correspondent from USA Today said in his Tweeter account that Lotulelei is set to see a cardiologist later this week before he will complete the required drills for athletes who will participate in the combine including the 40-yard dash.
Garafolo said Lotulelei’s agent said his client will do everything he could just to pass his physicals and qualify.
For the past two seasons at Utah, Lotulelei was considered as one of the most aggressive and promising linemen across the country.
With an impressive record as a junior and a senior compiling a total of 86 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and a total of 6.5 sacks is something that separate Lotulelei from his peers of his age.
There were several conflicting opinions whether or not Lotulelei will work out in this year’s NFL scouting considering his health condition.
Lotulelei’s heart condition as an obstacle in working out the NFL scouting and leaving some NFL fans shock is not actually the first time for this season.
NFL’s stance on the health and safety of its players remains firm as it issues reminders that safety and welfare of its players is one of the main concerns and priorities of the league.
“Health and safety issues are not simply matters of concern for the athletic trainer or physician but should be interwoven into the fabric of a coach’s vision,” said Dr. Brian Hainline, Chief Medical Officer of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the recently released NFL health and safety updated last week.
Hainline said NCAA and the NFL is actively working hand in hand in providing services that will further improve the football as a sports in the country both for players and all its participants.