NFL Reporter Jeff Howe Takes Leave for Medical Treatment

The national insider is stepping away from his role to undergo intensive care for a serious health issue.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Cancer

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a single geometric archway, evoking a sense of calm and institutional transition. — NFL national insider Jeff Howe is taking a temporary leave from his role at The Athletic to undergo intensive medical treatment. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Jeff Howe, an NFL national insider for The Athletic, has announced he is stepping away from his professional duties to undergo intensive medical treatment. Howe, who previously battled cancer and a 2025 mini stroke, aims to return to work before the end of the NFL season.

Why it matters

Howe’s announcement highlights the ongoing health challenges faced by public-facing professionals as they manage recovery from serious, long-term medical conditions like cancer and stroke while balancing demanding careers.

The report reflects a personal history involving a previous cancer diagnosis, a 2025 mini stroke, and chronic conditions including high blood pressure and sleep apnea. The specific underlying cause for the current required intensive treatment remains undisclosed.

The players

Jeff Howe

An NFL national insider for The Athletic who is currently stepping away from duties for medical treatment.

The Athletic

A subscription-based sports publication covering national NFL news and analysis.

The details

Howe has navigated several significant health hurdles over the past year and a half, building on a history that includes surviving a prior cancer diagnosis. His clinical profile also features high blood pressure and sleep apnea, both of which are common risk factors for stroke. The transition to intensive, aggressive treatment marks a necessary pause in his role as a national insider as he focuses on recovery.

2009-2021: Covered the New England Patriots.
2018: Joined The Athletic as an NFL insider.
2025: Diagnosed with a mini stroke.
October 2026: Announced departure for medical treatment.

Health Landscape

This situation illustrates the broader challenge of managing complex, chronic health outcomes like stroke and cancer in a demanding professional environment. It follows a growing trend of public figures addressing the long-term reality of systemic health recovery.

Howe’s experience underscores the importance of managing vascular risk factors like high blood pressure and sleep apnea to prevent secondary health events. These conditions are essential to monitor through regular screenings and consistent communication with a primary care physician.

The takeaway

Chronic health challenges require proactive management and prioritize long-term recovery over immediate professional demands. If you are balancing high-pressure work with chronic conditions, consult your doctor to ensure your preventive care plan remains robust.