Chestnut Hill, MA -- (Sports Network) - Boston College standout linebacker Mark Herzlich revealed Thursday he has been diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma, a form of cancer.

Ewing's Sarcoma is a malignant tumor most often found in bone or soft tissue. Herzlich's cancer is in his leg.

"This past week, I got some news nobody wants to hear. After undergoing some tests to determine the cause of some pain I had been experiencing in my leg, I learned that I have Ewing's Sarcoma," Herzlich said in a statement released through the school.

"Obviously, I was shocked. I had been extremely focused on preparing for my senior season at Boston College and for life beyond that. Now, I must channel all that energy into facing my toughest opponent yet, and that is exactly what I will do."

Herzlich has returned to Pennsylvania to be near his family and to undergo a series of tests to determine the best course of treatment.

"We all were stunned when we heard this news. Mark is a member of the BC football family and one of the most recognizable faces on our campus. From the day he stepped foot on our campus, he has been a leader on the field, in the classroom, and in the community," said Eagles head coach Frank Spaziani.

Herzlich was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Butkus Award, presented to the nation's top linebacker last season as a junior. He led the team with 110 tackles, six interceptions, eight pass break- ups, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.