Colts P Rigoberto Sanchez shares positive update after cancerous tumor surgery

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 10: Rigoberto Sanchez #8 of the Indianapolis Colts punts the ball in the game against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 10, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 10: Rigoberto Sanchez #8 of the Indianapolis Colts punts the ball in the game against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 10, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /
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Colts punter Rigoberto Sanchez provided fans with a positive update after he underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumor.

Indianapolis Colts fans were hit with some troubling news when the team released a statement through punter and kickoff specialist Rigoberto Sanchez that revealed he would miss some time after doctors spotted a cancerous tumor during his latest examination.

The statement noted that Sanchez would undergo surgery on Tuesday to remove the tumor, which was luckily found before it could spread throughout his body and potentially become untreatable.

In uplifting fashion, however, the aftermath of Sanchez’s operation came with him taking to various social media platforms to announce that he’s in good spirits. He also noted how humbled he was by the supportive messages that were sent his way.

This is such a relief to hear, but it honestly isn’t that surprising when you consider just how resilient and vigorous Sanchez is. After all, he was first notified of the tumor last week and still decided to play against the Titans this past Sunday, albeit after round-the-clock consultation with doctors.

The Hawaii native was relieved of his normal kickoff duties, but he handled five punts and an onside kick, the result of which we refuse to acknowledge given the circumstances. Indianapolis was ultimately unable to overcome their rash of injuries, but Sanchez performed as if it was just another game, averaging a tremendous 50.8 yards per punt, though he handed kickoff duties off to Rodrigo Blankenship.

Sanchez, who signed a four-year, $11.6 million contract extension with the Colts in 2019, is expected to miss an extended period of time while he recovers from surgery and receives additional testing, and he should take all of the time that’s required.

The Hawaii native is evidently one of the most beloved and respected players in Indianapolis’ locker room, and you can bet that his teammates will dedicate the rest of the season, assuming he doesn’t return before then, to playing with a semblance of the fight he showcased on Sunday.