Chris Johnson reveals ALS diagnosis, highlighting NFL health risks
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 12:21 AM
Last updated Jul 4, 2026
Former Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson announced his ALS diagnosis, raising concerns about the long-term health risks faced by NFL players. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is linked to increased occurrence among football players, who are four times more likely to develop it than the general population. The announcement coincides with ongoing discussions regarding the relationship between football-related injuries, including concussions, and neurological diseases such as CTE. Experts are investigating the impacts of physical trauma on athletes' health. Johnson's disclosure has prompted renewed scrutiny of the NFL's handling of player health issues and the support available for those affected.
- •Chris Johnson announced his ALS diagnosis on July 4, 2026.
- •ALS is linked to increased risk in NFL players.
- •Players with longer careers face higher ALS rates.
- •Experts connect ALS risk to football-related trauma.
- •The NFL's concussion settlement includes ALS as a compensable condition.
- 12:21 AMYahoo Sports — Tennessee Titans legend Chris Johnson's ALS diagnosis puts spotlight on disease's alarming connection to NFL players, CTE and other neurological diseases
"ALS is something most of us know exists, but that's about it. I sat down with an NYU expert on the disease and learned some striking things about it's connection to football.
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