Buffalo, NY – May 1, 2025
The NFL community mourns a somber moment as a beloved figure faces a familiar foe. Once celebrated for his resilience, this warrior’s battle has taken a new turn, prompting a heartfelt retirement and rallying fans to support his fight for another triumph over a relentless disease.
That warrior is David Quessenberry, the former Buffalo Bills offensive lineman who announced his NFL retirement due to a recurrence of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Diagnosed in April 2025, Quessenberry steps away to focus on treatment, leaving a legacy of courage.
In 2014, while with the Houston Texans, Quessenberry was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma at 24. Enduring three years of chemotherapy and radiation, he achieved remission in 2017, ringing the bell at MD Anderson Cancer Center. His comeback inspired countless fans and teammates.
“He’s a true fighter,” Brandon Beane told The Buffalo News’ Ryan O’Halloran. “Quessenberry’s spirit uplifted Allen’s squad.”
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72594306/1644728410.0.jpg)
With the Bills from 2022-2023, Quessenberry played 33 games, starting eight at guard and tackle. His versatility bolstered Josh Allen’s 4,306-yard offense, protecting the quarterback during the 2022 AFC East title run. In 2023, he started four games, showcasing grit despite limited snaps.
The recurrence, detected after routine scans, forced Quessenberry, now 34, to prioritize health over football. His 2024 season with Minnesota saw 16 games and four starts, but symptoms emerged late, leading to his diagnosis. Fans flooded social media, echoing his 2017 victory.
James Cook, whose 1,086 rushing yards thrived behind Quessenberry’s blocks, called him “a brother who never quit.” Beane’s $5.3 million cap, stretched by Cook’s $15 million dispute, underscores the team’s emotional loss as Quessenberry faces chemotherapy again.
“He’ll win again,” NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks said. “Quessenberry’s heart inspires Allen’s Bills Mafia.”
