There is some unfortunate news to report out of the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine regarding the health of Southeaster La. defensive back Robert Alford. During medicals, it was discovered that Alford reportedly suffers from Crohn’s Disease.

For those unfamiliar with Crhon’s Disease:

Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It usually affects the intestines, but may occur anywhere from the mouth to the end of the rectum (anus).

The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. It is a condition that occurs when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue (autoimmune disorder). People with Crohn’s disease have ongoing (chronic) inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract). Crohn’s disease may involve the small intestine, the large intestine, the rectum, or the mouth. The inflammation causes the intestinal wall to become thick.

Former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard suffered from Crohn’s Disease. Despite his illness, he was able to succeed at the top level. You can read more about Garrard’s inspiration story here.

Hopefully for Alford, who was expected to run one of the fastest 40-yard dash times at the combine, he will be able to overcome his illness and find success in the NFL.

There is no news on whether the disease will drop Alford down NFL Draft boards.