National Football League

Ryan Leaf to undergo radiation

Published Oct. 20, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf will undergo radiation treatments as a follow-up to the removal of a benign brain tumor last spring.

Leaf, 35, underwent the procedure in May after doctors discovered the growth following complaints of dizziness and blurred vision.

The former Washington State star, who was drafted by the San Diego Chargers with the second-overall pick in 1998, said he would be heading to southern California in mid November for six weeks of radiation.

"It's just another bridge I need to cross," said Leaf, who revealed the next phase of his treatment Wednesday night during an online chat hosted by The Seattle Times.

Leaf, whose quick and dramatic demise in the NFL marred a stellar collegiate career, was chatting with readers to promote his new book, which details his troubled past and fall from football grace.

"Writing became an outlet for me," said Leaf, who said he has remained sober since Nov. 2008, following addictions to alcohol and painkillers.

After finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting as a junior in 1997, Leaf opted to forgo his senior year at Washington State. He was selected with the second pick behind Peyton Manning, but his pro career proved to be the Colts superstar's polar opposite.

Leaf's poor rookie season, volatile relationship with the San Diego media and the city's fans combined with a rash of injuries to quickly dismantle what was considered one of the more promising prospects in NFL history.

Leaf retired from football in 2002 at the age of 26, citing injuries for his decision. In three seasons, Leaf completed just 48.4 percent of his passes for 3,666 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also threw 36 interceptions in 25 appearances during that time frame.