In a heartfelt interview on Good Morning America, former NFL running back Chris Johnson, 39, has bravely disclosed his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. The three-time Pro Bowl player, who made a name for himself with the Tennessee Titans before stints at the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals, expressed his shock at the diagnosis, noting that there is no family history of the disease.
A Life-Changing Revelation
Johnson explained that he first began experiencing weakness in his right hand last year, a symptom that he and his wife, Brittany, initially attributed to the physical toll of his ten-year career in the NFL. Despite running for over 11,000 total offensive yards and retiring in 2017, the couple had never considered ALS as a possibility.
In his candid conversation with Michael Strahan, Johnson shared, “Honestly, I don’t know if you ever fully process it. At first, you’re in shock. Then you realise you have two choices. You can give up, or you can fight. I chose to fight.”
Understanding ALS
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in both the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. Currently, there is no known cure for this devastating condition. Johnson referred to his diagnosis as “sporadic ALS,” which is the most common form of the disease and can strike without warning, often affecting individuals who have no prior family history.
In his case, the progression has been swift, necessitating the use of a speech-generating device to assist with communication. Reflecting on the rapid changes in his life, Johnson lamented, “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.”
A Growing Community of Awareness
Johnson’s announcement places him among a growing number of public figures who have bravely shared their ALS journeys. Notable names include Jenny Slatten from 90 Day Fiancé, who revealed her diagnosis last December after initially attempting to keep her condition private. She expressed a desire to seek out treatments and solutions publicly, stating, “Right now, we are open to any kind of help—treatments, clinical trials, lifestyle changes, or anything that could help treat this disease or slow down its progression.”
Additionally, Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane announced his own ALS diagnosis in April 2025 and tragically passed away the following February, underscoring the severity and unpredictability of this illness.
Why it Matters
Chris Johnson’s diagnosis shines a spotlight on the challenges faced by those suffering from ALS, a condition that not only impacts individuals but also profoundly affects their families. His decision to go public aims to raise awareness about this devastating disease, emphasising the critical need for research and support for both patients and their loved ones. By sharing his journey, Johnson hopes to inspire others facing similar battles and encourage ongoing dialogue about neurological diseases, ultimately fostering a greater understanding and a push for potential breakthroughs in treatment.