Missouri freshman lineman DJ Jones added to heart transplant list, coach confirms
Missouri offensive lineman DJ Jones, a freshman, is hospitalized after being placed on a heart transplant list, coach Eli Drinkwitz confirmed Tuesday. A cardiac issue was first identified during routine intake evaluations by the team's medical staff, and after the condition failed to resolve, Jones was referred to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, where doctors found the problem to be substantially more serious than initially thought. Jones has not played in any game this season and remains in Jacksonville while the team continues its schedule. Drinkwitz described the situation as emotionally difficult, noting that Jones is 18 years old and had been considered one of the top recruits in his signing class.
Why it matters
For coaches: Programs may review their medical intake protocols and support structures for players facing life-threatening diagnoses during their time with the team.
For athletes: College athletes and their families are reminded that serious underlying health conditions can be uncovered through standard team medical screenings.
Read the full story at CBS Sports
Sources
- CBS Sports · Shehan Jeyarajah: Missouri freshman DJ Jones placed on heart transplant list, Eli Drinkwitz says