Ohio State tight end Zak Herbstreit, son of ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit, has returned home after a recent hospitalization for a heart issue. The 21-year-old was admitted and listed in stable condition after experiencing what his father described as "heart-related problems." Kirk Herbstreit shared that the past week had been challenging but expressed relief that his son's condition is improving.
Zak Herbstreit #89 of the Ohio State Buckeyes walks onto the field during before their game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Ohio Stadium on October 30, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
In an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," the elder Herbstreit mentioned that Zak is now home under his mother's care and remains in good spirits. The recovery process is expected to take several months, requiring close monitoring of Zak's heart's response to medication. Kirk emphasized the importance of patience and a positive outlook during this period.
Initially, the family suspected pneumonia, but further tests revealed the heart issue. Kirk Herbstreit urged athletes to undergo thorough cardiac screenings, including echocardiograms, which can detect potential problems even in the absence of noticeable symptoms. He highlighted the importance of early detection, as Zak experienced minimal symptoms before the diagnosis.
ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit apologized Tuesday after suggesting University of Michigan could use the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to dodge a scheduled game with Ohio State. (Steve Limentani/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
Zak Herbstreit himself acknowledged the health setback in a statement, expressing gratitude for the medical professionals overseeing his care and the outpouring of support he received. He remains optimistic about a full recovery.
A third-generation Buckeye, Zak follows in the footsteps of his father, a former Ohio State quarterback, and his grandfather, a running back for the team. He joined the Buckeyes in 2021 after playing high school football in Nashville, Tennessee.
ESPN announcer Kirk Herbstreit talks to his son, Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Zak Herbstreit, prior to the Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Dec. 31, 2022, in Atlanta. (Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch)
Ohio State, currently ranked No. 4 in the preseason coaches poll, is gearing up for their season opener against Minnesota on September 2nd.
