Kansas City Chiefs backup defensive lineman BJ Thompson is in stable condition and recovering after suffering a seizure and cardiac arrest during a team meeting. The incident occurred on Thursday, prompting a quick response from fellow team members and staff.

Thompson, 25 years old, experienced the seizure during a special teams meeting, causing him to briefly go into cardiac arrest. Chiefs' vice president of sports medicine and performance, Rick Burkholder, stated that the exact cause is unknown at this time. However, he confirmed that Thompson is "awake and alert" and heading in the right direction.

The immediate response by the Chiefs' training staff was crucial in managing the situation. Kicker Harrison Butker quickly sought help from the team's athletic training staff, who called for a doctor to assist. Thompson was stabilized and given CPR before receiving an automated external defibrillator (AED) shock, which successfully restarted his heart. Burkholder noted that Thompson was in cardiac arrest for less than a minute and a half.

Emergency medical responders from the Kansas City Fire department and paramedics took over from the team's initial efforts. Thompson was then transported to The University of Kansas Health System, where he was heavily sedated for the night. He was placed on a ventilator to assist with breathing due to the sedation, but was brought out of sedation on Friday morning.

Head Coach Andy Reid expressed gratitude for the support unit within the Chiefs organization, emphasizing the importance of emergency action plans and regular practice. Reid informed the team about the incident and offered support for those affected. He commended the team for their resilience and positive energy upon their return.

Teammates of Thompson expressed their support and relief that there was a swift response to the incident. Defensive end George Karlaftis, although not present during the incident, praised the quick actions taken.

Thompson, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, played in one game during his rookie season, as per NFL.com records.

While further medical evaluation is needed to determine the underlying cause of Thompson's seizure and cardiac arrest, his recovery progress is encouraging. The Chiefs organization continues to provide support and resources to Thompson and his teammates as they navigate through this challenging situation.