Former Detroit Lions head coach Bobby Ross has disclosed that he is currently facing health challenges.
Speaking with USA Today, the 88-year-old revealed he has been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). According to the American Cancer Society, CLL is typically a long-term illness that is difficult to cure but can often be managed for years.
“It’s technically a cancer, though many don’t view it as life-threatening unless the lymph nodes enlarge,” Ross explained. “That’s the stage I’m dealing with right now.”
Because of his condition, Ross will not be in attendance when Georgia Tech, the program he once led to a share of the 1990 national championship, kicks off its season against Colorado this Friday.
Ross also shared that his wife, Alice, recently underwent surgery to remove cancer. “It’s been a tough stretch for us,” he admitted.
His coaching career spanned more than four decades, including time in both college and the NFL. In the pros, he held roles with the Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, and Detroit Lions, serving as head coach of the Chargers and Lions.
After guiding the Chargers until 1996, Ross accepted Detroit’s offer of a lucrative contract and increased authority over personnel. He led the Lions to playoff berths in 1997 and 1999, though both runs ended in the Wild Card round.
Ross stepped down during the 2000 season after a Week 10 loss to Miami, leaving Detroit with a 27–30 record. He later returned to college football, taking over at Army before retiring from the sidelines.
