National Football League

Fox to miss time after heart surgery

Published Nov. 2, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

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Denver Broncos coach John Fox will have surgery on his aortic valve Monday or Tuesday in North Carolina.

Fox, 58, will remain in Charlotte, N.C., for two weeks and miss about a month to six weeks. He remained hospitalized Sunday.

The Broncos are leaning toward naming defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio as interim head coach.

Fox was slated to have the procedure done in the offseason and was hoping to put off the operation until February. As part of his trip to North Carolina over the Broncos' bye week, he met with his cardiologist and was told to seek medical attention immediately if he felt any discomfort.

On Saturday, Fox became dizzy playing golf near his offseason home and was taken to a hospital, where tests revealed he couldn't wait any longer to have the surgery.

"I sincerely appreciate all of the support from friends, Denver Broncos fans and so many around the league today," Fox said in a statement released by the team Saturday night. "Although I am disappointed I must take some time away from the team to attend to this pre-existing health condition, I understand that it's the right thing to do. I have great confidence in our coaches and players, who are fully committed to our goals.

"I look forward to returning to coaching as soon as possible."

Their next game is Nov. 10 against AFC West foe San Diego.

Fox is in his third season as Broncos coach after a nine-year stint with the Carolina Panthers. He's 107-88 overall, including 6-5 in the playoffs. In Denver, he's 29-14, including 20-5 since quarterback Peyton Manning's arrival.

The Associated Press contributed to this report