Former NFL star Chris Johnson has revealed that he is battling Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), sharing the emotional news during an interview on ABC’s Good Morning America. The 39-year-old said he was diagnosed last year after first noticing weakness in his right hand while still living an active lifestyle.
Johnson, best known for his electrifying speed and his historic 2,006-yard rushing season with the Tennessee Titans in 2009, said doctors believe he has sporadic ALS, the most common form of the disease, which occurs without a family history.
“At first, you’re in shock. Then you realize you have two choices. You can give up, or you can fight. I chose to fight,” Johnson said during the interview.
Johnson explained that what began as a weakened grip quickly progressed. The disease has now affected his ability to speak, and he communicates using a speech-generating device created from recordings of his own voice. He also shared that simple tasks, such as holding a cup or lifting his young daughter, are no longer possible.
Despite the devastating diagnosis, Johnson remains determined to battle the disease. He and his wife, Brittany, are pursuing experimental treatments and participating in clinical research in hopes of slowing the progression of ALS while helping advance future therapies.
Johnson credited his wife and their four children for giving him the strength to keep moving forward.
“I want people to know that I’m still me,” he said. “ALS has changed what my body can do, but it hasn’t changed who I am.”
Following his announcement, the NFL community rallied around the three-time Pro Bowler, with the Titans and fans across the league offering messages of love, prayers, and support. Johnson retired from the NFL after the 2017 season, finishing his career with more than 11,000 yards from scrimmage while also playing for the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals.
