Former NFL star Chris Johnson has revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
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The three-time Pro Bowl running back provided the update during an interview with Good Morning America and Michael Strahan. Johnson, 40, used his eyes to trigger text on a screen, which would then play in his voice.
ALS is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord. It progresses over time and eventually leads to death.
"It's continued to progress much faster than I ever imagined," Johnson said. "I want people to understand just how quickly ALS can attack your body," he said. "Just over a year ago, I was picking up my 7-year-old daughter so she'd make a wish with her birthday cake. Today, I couldn't do that."
FULL INTERVIEW: Former NFL running back Chris Johnson reveals his ALS diagnosis at 39. pic.twitter.com/5Pb8YAQ5x0
— Good Morning America (@GMA) June 29, 2026
Johnson said that he first noticed weakness in his right hand and that he couldn't grip objects in the same way as before. He and his wife did not expect news of this magnitude, especially with no history of ALS in Johnson's family.
Now, the family's life has majorly shifted. He and his family have to focus on treatment and clinical trials.
A first-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, Johnson started his career with the Tennessee Titans and immediately made an impact. He kicked off his career with six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. He led the NFL with 2,006 rushing yards in 2009. He also led the league with 2,509 yards from scrimmage.
Johnson spent one season with the New York Jets (2014) and three with the Arizona Cardinals (2015-17) before retiring from the NFL. He ended his career with 9,651 rushing yards, 55 rushing touchdowns, 2,255 receiving yards, and nine receiving touchdowns.
"Some people leave a mark on an organization that you just can't put into words," said Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk in a statement. "Chris Johnson is one of those people for us. His leadership on the field, in addition to his impact in the locker room and Nashville community have written him permanently into the story of this franchise.
"Learning this news is extremely difficult, and we will support Chris every step of the way throughout his journey. We are holding him and his family close, and join our fans around the world in expressing our love for Chris."
