The past six weeks have brought a challenging and unfamiliar chapter for Auburn head football coach Hugh Freeze.
On February 28, the university revealed that the 55-year-old had been diagnosed with an early-stage form of prostate cancer. The announcement described the condition as “very treatable and curable,” with doctors optimistic about a full recovery following appropriate treatment.
Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Freeze shared that follow-up tests have shown the cancer to be low-aggression. Because of this, he’s chosen to delay surgery for now, planning instead to be re-evaluated in January.
“In speaking with my doctors, they believe that if I can mentally handle the knowledge of having something in my body that I don’t want there, there’s no need to rush into treatment,” Freeze explained. “If we do go ahead with surgery or another option, the best timing would be mid-June or mid-January, since recovery takes about three weeks. Jill and I believe, at least for now, that I can manage it mentally.”
Auburn’s initial statement following the diagnosis made it clear that Freeze would remain active in his coaching role, and that has proven true throughout spring practice. His current approach to treatment further supports that plan.
