UPDATED Saturday, Nov. 2 at 11:19 p.m. MDT

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. --Saturday afternoon in Charlotte, N.C., Head Coach John Fox was taken to a local hospital after feeling light-headed while playing golf.

After undergoing testing and further observation, it was determined that Fox will undergo an aortic heart valve replacement early next week.

"He will take a leave of absence from coaching for at least the next several weeks," the Broncos said in a statement. "Our focus at this time is Coach Fox's health and well-being. We extend our thoughts and well-wishes to him for a full and speedy recovery.

"Coach Fox was advised by doctors months ago that his defective aortic valve would require this procedure following the 2013 season. As part of his trip to North Carolina over the bye week, he had a preoperative appointment on Thursday with his doctor, who informed him to seek medical attention immediately if he felt any discomfort."

Executive Director of Media Relations Patrick Smyth tweeted that he spoke with Fox earlier in the day, and the coach reported that he did not have a heart attack. He was in good spirits in the hospital.

"I sincerely appreciate all of the support from friends, Denver Broncos fans and so many around the league today," Fox said in a statement. "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."

The team has not announced an interim head coach, and that decision will be made public as soon as it is finalized.