All-Big 12 Defensive Lineman Dontay Corleone Takes Indefinite Leave for Treatment of Blood Clots

University of Cincinnati defensive lineman Dontay Corleone has been sidelined indefinitely as he undergoes treatment for blood clots in his lungs, as announced by the school on Friday. Corleone, who was named to the All-Big 12 Second Team last season, reported chest discomfort and shortness of breath to the team’s athletic trainers.

Following evaluation and treatment led by senior associate athletic director for sports medicine Aaron Himmler and head team physician Dr. Jon Divine, Corleone was diagnosed and received initial treatment. He has been recovering at home since his discharge on June 14.

In a statement, Corleone expressed gratitude to his family, medical staff, and the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for their support during this challenging time. While he is focused on his recovery and hopes to return to football soon, he is committed to rehabilitating and supporting the team in a leadership role in the meantime. He is optimistic about the team’s prospects this season and appreciative of the support from his teammates, coaches, university, city, and fans over the years.

According to Himmler, Corleone’s recovery is progressing well, and the medical team is optimistic about his return to the field soon. Corleone is working with specialists to determine the next steps in his recovery process. As a redshirt junior last season, he posted impressive stats with 39 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks.