Introduction
Alex Singleton is not just another player in the NFL. As a hard-hitting inside linebacker for the Denver Broncos, he has carved out a reputation for consistency, grit and tackling ferocity. But in recent days, his story took a deeply personal turn — a cancer diagnosis, surgery, and a renewed sense of purpose. This article examines Alex’s journey: his background, his contract status, what recent news reveals about his health, his on-field performance (including insights from Pro Football Focus (PFF)), and the role of his partner in supporting him through the storm.
Early life & path to the NFL
Alex Reed Singleton was born on December 7, 1993 in Thousand Oaks, California. He played his college football at Montana State Bobcats, where he impressed with his tackling and leadership. Despite his strong college career, he went undrafted in the 2015 NFL Draft and took a non-traditional route—including time in the Canadian Football League—before finally breaking through in the NFL.
His persistence paid off. He has become a key contributor in Denver’s defense, a captain, and a leader in the locker room.
Performance & PFF metrics
On the field, Singleton has built a solid resume: as of his career prior to late 2025, he registered over 600 tackles, multiple interceptions and fumble recoveries. For example, in the 2022 season he recorded 152 tackles (92 solo) with one interception returned for a touchdown.
According to PFF, Singleton’s grades reflect his value in run-defense, tackling, and consistency. While exact numeric grades aren’t reproduced here, his ranking among elite linebackers is notable: he produced the most double-digit tackle games (13) in a single season (2023) by any NFL player since at least 1999.
These metrics highlight why the Broncos rely on him.
Contract & value to the Broncos
Understanding Singleton’s contract gives insight into both his value and his future with the team. According to Spotrac, for 2025 he carries a cap hit of roughly $6.9 million with a base salary of about $5.49 million.
OverTheCap reports that he signed a 3-year deal (2023–2025) worth about $18 million, with ~$9 million guaranteed.
From a team-perspective:
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The Broncos have committed meaningful resources to him, signifying trust.
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His contract is expiring after the deal, meaning 2026 may bring new negotiations or free-agency decisions.
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His performance and durability (barring injury or other issues) make him a cornerstone for Denver’s defence.
News: Cancer diagnosis, surgery & update
In November 2025, Alex Singleton revealed he had been diagnosed with testicular cancer after a routine NFL drug test flagged elevated levels of the hormone hCG.
Key timeline:
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The elevated hCG triggered further testing, leading to an ultrasound and tumour detection.
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He played in a Thursday night game (against the Las Vegas Raiders) and recorded nine tackles in Denver’s 10-7 win, even while knowing the diagnosis.
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The very next day he underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tumour.
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The Broncos organization said his health is their “No. 1 priority” and that the cancer appears to have been caught early, with a promising prognosis.
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Singleton himself shared that he viewed the diagnosis as the kind of “storm” he had to face, and that football and family helped him cope.
What this means: this is a human story of a professional athlete balancing elite performance, personal health, and public awareness. It also raises awareness for men’s health issues, screening, and early detection. Alex Singleton cancer.
Wife / Partner & personal life
While not married publicly, Singleton is engaged to Sam Amberik (sometimes referenced as “Sam Singleton”). Sources note their engagement in July 2024.
Key points:
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Sam Amberik is his partner, and many of the announcements and personal reflections from Singleton mention that Sam and their child (at least one daughter) were key supporters.
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The personal side of his story shows how intimate and family-oriented his response to the cancer diagnosis has been. He spoke candidly about “the weekend with my wife, Sam, and 9-month-old daughter … a lot of time sitting on the couch … going through the emotions.”
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Their relationship underscores a dimension beyond football: the support system that underpins a professional athlete’s mental and physical resilience.
Implications for the Broncos and the defence
From the team’s perspective, the implications are several-fold:
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Depth & leadership: With Singleton sidelined for at least the next game (against the Kansas City Chiefs) and potentially more, Denver’s defensive leadership and inside-linebacker depth will be tested.
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Contract considerations: Given his contract situation and pending free-agency (post-2025), the Broncos must balance investment, performance and the long-term health outlook.
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Inspirational effect: His openness about health and early screening could serve as a morale booster. Teammates publicly remarked they were inspired by his courage.
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Performance risk: While the cancer was caught early and removed, there remains uncertainty about recovery, return timeframe and possible performance impacts. The Broncos noted that the tumour appears to have been caught early, which is a very good sign.
In short: Singleton’s experience becomes more than an individual narrative—it touches team culture, contract strategy, player wellness and the broader conversation around athlete health.
FAQs
Q1: What type of cancer does Alex Singleton have?
A1: He was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The initial indication came from elevated hCG hormone levels discovered during a routine NFL drug test.
He underwent surgery on November 7 2025 to remove the tumour.
Q2: What is his prognosis and when might he return?
A2: The prognosis is very positive—the tumour was caught early, and the Broncos organization stated that Alex is “recovering well” and doctors are optimistic he could return in the coming weeks.
Singleton himself said he is not giving a specific timetable yet, but believes it won’t be four to six weeks absent complications.
Q3: Who is his partner / wife?
A3: His partner is Sam Amberik, whom he was reported to have been engaged to in July 2024. They have a daughter, and Alex publicly acknowledged Sam’s support during his recovery.
Q4: What is his contract situation with the Broncos?
A4: Singleton is on a 3-year contract (2023–2025) reportedly worth ~$18 million with ~$9 million guaranteed.
For 2025 his cap hit is approximately $6.9 million. His contract will expire after the 2025 season, so future negotiations are on the horizon.
Q5: What do PFF metrics say about his performance?
A5: While PFF doesn’t publicly release all numeric grades here, the data shows Singleton is among the most productive inside linebackers in terms of tackling and consistency. For example, he recorded the most games with double-digit tackles (13) in one season (2023) of any NFL player since 1999. His career tackle totals and solo-tackles numbers reinforce his reliability.
Q6: How has the Broncos organisation responded?
A6: The Broncos released a statement emphasising that Singleton’s health and well-being are the team’s No. 1 priority. They said they were “grateful it appears the cancer was caught early”.The team has rallied around him, with teammates publicly showing support and referencing his leadership as inspirational. Alex Singleton cancer.
Conclusion
Alex Singleton’s story is compelling on many levels. On one hand, you have a high-performing inside linebacker who climbed the ranks from undrafted status to a key leader in the Denver Broncos defence. On the other hand, you have a man facing one of life’s most challenging moments—cancer—while still showing up for the team, family and his greater mission.
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