Former NFL running back Chris Johnson has shared his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with his children in a public letter, reflecting on his football career and the potential connection to his current health. Johnson, known for his record-breaking 2,000-yard rushing season in 2009, announced his diagnosis publicly in June, a year after first noticing symptoms.
In a letter published by The Players Tribune, Johnson expressed his reflections on his time in the NFL, noting that he has visited numerous ALS clinics. He cited a study indicating that former NFL players are nearly four times more likely to develop and die from ALS compared to the general male population. "Obviously, I can’t help but wonder if there’s any connection between my career and where I am now," Johnson wrote to his four children.
Despite the diagnosis, Johnson stated he cherishes his NFL experience, emphasizing that football provided him with a platform. He is set to be inducted into the Tennessee Titans’ Ring of Honor during the team’s season opener. He also found joy in coaching his sons in football, calling it a significant gift.
Johnson described his journey from experiencing weakness in his right hand last year to now using a speech-generating device. He acknowledged his initial struggle with sharing his diagnosis, citing feelings of shame about his body's deterioration. He recounted the difficulty of informing his children, striving for honesty while also offering hope.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement. This leads to muscle weakness, impacting abilities such as movement, speech, and breathing. Johnson expressed regret for not disclosing his diagnosis sooner, recognizing the potential for increased attention and funding for ALS research that could have resulted. However, he also acknowledged that the public's understanding of the disease's rapid progression might not have been as profound without witnessing his own experience.
Johnson, a first-round draft pick in 2008, rushed for 7,965 yards during his six seasons with the Titans, earning him the nickname "CJ2K." He concluded his letter to his sons by encouraging them to be fearless and authentic in their own pursuits, stating, "Your football journey is yours. Be fearless, be you, and don’t let anyone stand in the way of your dreams."
He also noted that the game is significantly safer now than during his playing days and expressed hope for continued safety improvements in football.