Former NFL running back Chris Johnson, known for his record-setting 2009 season, has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), he revealed in an interview.
Johnson, 40, was diagnosed with the progressive neurodegenerative disease last year. He shared his story on "Good Morning America" to raise awareness about ALS, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
He first noticed symptoms as weakness in his right hand. "At first, it was little things like my grip didn't feel right and I wasn't as strong as I've always been," Johnson said. He noted that the disease can be particularly shocking as there is no family history of ALS in his family.
ALS is the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND), according to the NHS. It is an incurable condition, and its cause remains unclear.
During his 10-year NFL career, Johnson was a three-time Pro Bowler. In 2009, he led the league in rushing yards with 2,006 yards, contributing to a then-record 2,509 yards from scrimmage (rushing and receiving combined).