New Orleans Saints quarterback Jake Haener has announced that he has been diagnosed with a rare form of skin cancer.
Haener shared his diagnosis when asked about a small round bandage on his right cheek during training camp on Friday.
The 25-year-old, a sophomore pro at Fresno State, wouldn’t disclose his specific diagnosis but said he was told a little over a week ago that he has a form of skin cancer that’s rare for people his age.
“It’s something that just came up. I was a little worried about it. My family was a little worried about it. It was kind of a random bump,” Haener said.
The pick for the fourth round of the 2023 draft was made by a dermatologist, the spot was removed and the biopsy revealed cancer.
Jake Haener has revealed that he has been diagnosed with a rare form of skin cancer
Haener, who participated in the Saints’ first three practices on the campus of the University of California, Irvine, said he’s unsure how much his diagnosis will affect his football schedule.
He has an appointment on August 1, at which time doctors will decide on treatment and how long he can delay treatment if it would interfere with his NFL career.
“When things like this happen, you have to do something about it,” Haener said.
“My family has been great. The coaching staff has been great in dealing with me.”
Haener is the second Saints player in two years to be diagnosed with cancer.
Last summer, tight end Foster Moreau underwent treatment for Hodgkin’s disease. His cancer was in full remission by training camp, and he played in 15 games last season.
Haener shared his diagnosis Friday during the New Orleans Saints’ training camp.
Haener sounded optimistic about his prospects for a full recovery.
“I’m okay mentally. It’s just something I have to take care of and take the necessary steps,” Haener said.
‘I think I’m too young and healthy to go through something like this, but I want to do something about it.
‘I want to deal with it responsibly – of course it can’t be a distraction, because I’ll be fine… I don’t want to wait too long with something like this. I want it sorted out.’