Former Green Bay Packers running back Ahman Green announced in January 2025 that he has been diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease. Green, a four-time Pro Bowl selection during his eight-year tenure with the Packers, shared the news on the "Go Long" podcast with Tyler Dunne.
He detailed that his wife first noticed symptoms, including twitching in his sleep, after his retirement from the NFL in 2009. Green stated he had been aware that something was not right for some time before seeking medical evaluation. He received his official diagnosis in January 2025 after undergoing testing.
Green has kept his diagnosis private for over a year and a half, sharing it only with close friends and family. He expressed a desire to make Parkinson's a more open topic of discussion, stating, "It needs to be up front. It needs to be a topic that’s always hit. And it’s not the end all."
He described his current approach to managing the disease as being proactive, similar to how one might approach a cancer diagnosis. Green is focusing on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adhering to his medication regimen. He also mentioned experiencing short-term memory loss, sleepwalking, and sleep talking.
Green began his NFL career as a third-round pick by the Seattle Seahawks before being traded to the Packers in 2000. He quickly established himself as a prominent running back, earning four consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2001 to 2004. His most productive season was in 2003, when he rushed for 1,883 yards and recorded 20 total touchdowns. Across 104 games with the Packers, Green accumulated 8,322 rushing yards and 54 rushing touchdowns. He also played two seasons with the Houston Texans and returned to the Packers in a reserve role in 2009.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. While there is currently no cure, treatments and therapies can help manage symptoms. Medical experts project that the number of people affected by Parkinson's could rise to 25.2 million by 2050, highlighting the growing public health challenge.