Bernie Kosar Undergoes Successful Liver Transplant

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar underwent a successful liver transplant on November 17, 2025, at University Hospitals in Cleveland, marking a critical step in his battle against advanced liver disease.

The 61-year-old Kosar, who had been on the transplant waiting list since spring 2024, entered surgery around 5 a.m. and emerged about five hours later, according to Jim McCarthy, a close friend and business associate. The procedure followed a week of complications, including internal bleeding that required multiple interventions. Kosar had endured at least five procedures to stem the bleeding, which originated from an infection and escalated his condition. A planned transplant the previous weekend was postponed after the donor organ tested positive for infection. Doctors finally halted the bleeding on Saturday morning, allowing preparations for the transplant to proceed.

Hours after the surgery, Kosar posted a video from his hospital bed on social media, appearing upbeat despite the wires and tubes connected to him. "Hey, I'm out and I'm feeling good," he said. "Just ready to enjoy the rest of the week and the rest of our lives. You matter." The next day, he...