Former NFL Star Reveals ALS Diagnosis
Chris Johnson, a former NFL running back known for his impressive career, has announced his diagnosis with ALS, a type of motor neurone disease. Johnson, who achieved over 2,000 rushing yards in a single NFL season, shared the news during an appearance on ABC’s Good Morning America. He communicated with co-anchor Michael Strahan, also a former NFL player, using a speech device.
Johnson explained that there is no family history of ALS in his background. His medical team believes his case is sporadic ALS, which accounts for the majority of diagnoses. He noted that this characteristic often makes the disease particularly shocking, as it can affect individuals who do not anticipate it.
Johnson’s Career and Impact
During his NFL career, which spanned 10 seasons, Johnson was a three-time Pro Bowler. He was recognized as the league’s offensive player of the year in 2009, a season in which he rushed for 2,006 yards. This achievement ranks as the seventh-most in history for a single season. Johnson played for the Tennessee Titans, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. He was a first-round pick for the Titans in 2008, following a successful college career at East Carolina.
Johnson is particularly associated with the Titans, where he spent six seasons. Among Titans players, he holds the fourth position all-time in rushing yards and touchdown runs. His final season in the NFL was with the Arizona Cardinals in 2017.
Living with ALS and Raising Awareness
ALS is a condition that leads to paralysis and, eventually, death, with no known cure currently available. Several athletes involved in contact sports have developed the disease, including former New Orleans Saints player Steve Gleason and rugby players Rob Burrow, Doddie Weir, and Lewis Moody.
Johnson stated that he received his diagnosis in 2025 after noticing a decline in the strength of his grip. He described the initial shock of the diagnosis, followed by the realization of having two options: to surrender or to fight. Johnson emphasized his choice to fight the disease.
He expressed his desire to raise awareness about ALS by openly discussing his diagnosis. Johnson highlighted that while the disease has altered his physical capabilities, it has not changed his identity. He noted that people sometimes equate physical disability with a change in a person’s inner self, but he maintains his ability to think, dream, and love his family, even as his body no longer cooperates as it once did.
Tennessee Titans owner Amy Strunk issued a statement acknowledging Johnson’s contributions, praising his leadership on the field and his influence in the locker room. She also noted his lasting impact on the Nashville community, stating that he is permanently etched into the franchise’s history. The New York Jets also released a statement in response to the news. Johnson shared that his condition has progressed more rapidly than he anticipated, noting that just over a year ago, he could pick up his 7-year-old daughter, a task he can no longer perform today.
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Source: theguardian.com
