Football fans everywhere are reacting to a stunning reveal from Chris Johnson. The former NFL standout appeared on Good Morning America on Monday, revealing that he has ALS.
Johnson, 39, says he was diagnosed in 2025. Speaking using the assistance of a speech-generating device, Johnson noted the progression of the disease.
“It’s continued to progress much faster than I ever imagined. I want people to understand just how quickly ALS can attack your body,” Johnson shared. “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.”
With no family history of ALS, Johnson’s case is what doctors call sporadic ALS. The former star running back is hoping to raise awareness and wants fans to know that his mind is still very much aware, even while physically limited.
“I want people to know that I’m still me. ALS has changed what my body can do, but it hasn’t changed who I am,” Johnson said. “People sometimes look at the physical disability and assume you’re not still the same person inside. I still think the same. I still dream. I still love my family. My body just doesn’t cooperate.”
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
A native of Orlando, Florida and product of Olympia High School, Johnson played college football at East Carolina. After back-to-back first-team All-C-USA seasons, Johnson was selected No. 24 overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2008 NFL Draft.
Johnson played for the Titans from 2008-13. He had a 2009 season to remember, recording an NFL record 2,509 yards from scrimmage, leading to his “CJ2K” nickname. He was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year for 2009 and a first-team All-Pro selection.
After his time with the Titans, Johnson also played for the New York Jets (2014) and Arizona Cardinals (2015-17). He finished his NFL career with over 9,600 rushing yards and 55 rushing touchdowns.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
