Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton has revealed that a recent cancer diagnosis led to surgery — and the discovery came about in an unexpected way.

In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the 31-year-old linebacker explained that a routine, league-mandated drug test flagged unusually high levels of the hormone hCG, which prompted further medical investigation. Elevated hCG levels can sometimes be a sign of testicular cancer.

Shocked by the test results, Singleton quickly scheduled a visit with a urologist. After undergoing several follow-up examinations — including ultrasound and CT scans — doctors confirmed that he had a cancerous tumor.

Singleton underwent surgery on Friday, just one day after recording nine tackles in Denver’s 10-7 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

“I debated whether to share something this personal,” Singleton wrote in his post. “But if my story encourages even one person to pay closer attention to their health, it’s worth it. Early detection and regular screenings can truly save lives — and spare families from a lot of pain.”

The veteran linebacker reportedly informed his Broncos teammates about the procedure on Monday, leaving many stunned given his strong performance the previous weekend. Despite the diagnosis, Singleton said he is optimistic about making a full recovery.

A team captain and Denver’s leading tackler this season with 89 total stops, Singleton confirmed he will miss Sunday’s matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Fortunately, the Broncos have a bye in Week 12, giving him some additional time to recover.

Singleton’s football journey began at Montana State, and after going undrafted in 2015, he signed with the Seattle Seahawks. His career later took him to the Philadelphia Eagles and the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League before joining Denver, where he has become one of the team’s most consistent defenders.