Chris Johnson, one of only nine NFL players to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a single season, has revealed that he has ALS. The former Tennessee Titans running back shared the news during an interview on ABC’s Good Morning America, which aired on Monday.
Johnson, 40, played 10 seasons in the NFL and ended his career with the Arizona Cardinals in 2017. He said he was diagnosed with the fatal nervous system disease last year.
During the interview with Michael Strahan, Johnson communicated using a computerized speech device controlled by his eyes. He said it was difficult to accept the diagnosis at first.
“At first, you’re in shock,” Johnson said. “Then you realize you have two choices: give up or keep fighting. I chose to fight.”
Chris Johnson was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft after playing college football at East Carolina. During six seasons with the Titans, he rushed for 7,965 yards. In 2009, he ran for 2,006 yards, earning the nickname “CJ2K” and becoming one of the team’s most popular players.
After Johnson revealed that he has ALS, Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk shared a statement saying the organization is thinking of him and his family.
“Chris Johnson made a lasting impact on our team, both on and off the field,” Adams Strunk said. “This news is heartbreaking, and we will support him and his family throughout this journey.”
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a serious disease that affects the nerves controlling muscles. It causes muscle weakness and can make it difficult to move, speak, and breathe. Former Titans linebacker Tim Shaw, who played with Johnson from 2010 to 2012, was diagnosed with ALS in 2014 and is still living with the disease.
Johnson, who also spent one season with the New York Jets, said he first noticed weakness in his right hand and had trouble gripping objects. About a year ago, he was still exercising every day. Now, he cannot hold a cup or speak without using a computerized speech device.
“My mind is still the same,” Johnson said. “I still think, dream, and love my family. My body just doesn’t work the way it used to.”
Johnson’s wife, Brittany, joined him during the interview. She has become his main caregiver.
Johnson thanked his wife and four children for giving him the strength to keep fighting.
“They give me a reason to keep going,” he said. “I want more time with them and to make more memories.”
Johnson is also taking part in experimental treatments that may help extend his life and support research into ALS. He said he hopes sharing his story will help others by raising awareness, encouraging research, and giving hope to families affected by the disease.