Faith. Family. Sports. That’s David Pollack’s X bio—a simple but powerful glimpse into what matters most to him. Now, those three pillars are being tested in ways he never expected. Even the strongest among us have breaking points, and Pollack, known for his sharp football analysis and quick wit, is facing his hardest battle yet. The former Georgia linebacker, who has always kept his personal life private and grounded in faith, is opening up about something deeply personal—his wife, Lindsey, is fighting brain cancer.

On Monday, Pollack took to X, his heart heavy, to share the news of Lindsey’s upcoming surgery at Duke. “I do not share much of my personal life on social media, but today is gonna be different. If you are the praying type, please lift up my wife, Lindsey. She has brain cancer and surgery is Wednesday at Duke. So thankful to serve a loving God that meets us in our struggles!”

This isn’t just another challenge for Pollack—it’s a battle where strength looks different. A man who has built his life on faith and perseverance now leans on prayer more than ever. He’s always been the one lifting others up, whether on the football field or through The Pollack Family Foundation, which he and Lindsey founded to support families in Athens and Greater Atlanta. Now, it’s our turn to lift him up—to rally around him and his family with prayers, encouragement, and hope.

If there’s one thing people know about David Pollack, it’s that he doesn’t quit. His football career should have been legendary—three-time All-American at Georgia, first-round NFL draft pick—but a career-ending spinal injury in his rookie year changed everything. Instead of giving up, he adapted, pushing forward into sports media. He became one of ESPN’s most insightful voices on college football, later stepping into coaching and even helping North Oconee win a state title in 2024.

Even when ESPN let him go in 2023, he didn’t sit around feeling sorry for himself. Instead, he launched the Family Goals Pod, blending his love for football and faith into something even more meaningful. That’s just who he is—a fighter, a leader, and someone who always finds a way forward.

Now, life has thrown another devastating challenge his way. But just like every obstacle before, Pollack is standing firm—this time, not on a football field, but beside his wife as she fights for her life. And he’s not alone.

The College Football community stands with David Pollack

Cancer doesn’t just affect one person—it ripples through families, friends, and entire communities. In the world of college football, moments like these bring everyone together. It’s a family, and when one of their own is struggling, they rally.

Fans, former teammates, and even rivals are putting the game aside to support Pollack, just like they did for Brent Venables’ wife, Julie, during her fight against breast cancer. The love and prayers never stopped for her, and now, Pollack is receiving that same unwavering support. “Many prayers for your wife, David 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻” a fan posted.

It’s not just the fans—his peers are stepping up, too. Former ESPN reporter Britt McHenry, who battled brain cancer herself, reached out to offer words of encouragement: “We never crossed paths at ESPN, but thinking of your wife and your family. I, too, had brain cancer and surgery for it at Hopkins 5 years ago. If she needs anyone to talk to after it, I’m here. She’s got this. 💪🏼” McHenry knows firsthand what this battle looks like, and her words carry weight.

A fan from Durham offered reassurance about Lindsey’s treatment, knowing firsthand how strong Duke’s medical team is: “David, I’m a short distance from Durham. I’m confident your wife is in great hands with the Duke medical team and in God’s healing hands.” And that’s no exaggeration. Duke’s cancer institute treats over 6,000 new patients every year and is recognized as one of the top cancer hospitals in the Southeast. If there’s a place to fight this, it’s there.

Another supporter shared a personal story that fuels hope: “My dad had brain surgery at Duke 15 years ago, and he’s doing great to this day. I pray for the same success for your wife and family!” These words matter. They remind Pollack, Lindsey, and their family that they’re not alone. That faith, support, and cutting-edge medicine are all in their corner.

David Pollack has always been the one offering strength to others. Now, he needs it in return. This is more than just a personal trial—it’s a moment where his faith, his family, and his football community are coming together in a way that truly defines what matters most.

The Pollacks are feeling the love, that’s for sure. Prayers are pouring in from every corner – fans, former colleagues, teammates, even folks who’ve never met them. David’s leaning on his faith, yeah, but he’s also leaning on this incredible community that’s got his back. You’ve got Buckeyes fans, sending “Prayers and lots of good vibes you and your families way 🙏🏻❤️”. It’s a beautiful thing. So, if you’re the praying type, send one up for Lindsey. If you’re more about good vibes, throw some of those their way. Because honestly, when life throws punches like this, faith and love? That’s the real knockout strength.