Chris Johnson reveals rapid ALS diagnosis and uses speech generator
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 1:26 PM
Last updated Jun 30, 2026
Former NFL running back Chris Johnson appeared on Good Morning America to discuss his ALS diagnosis. He explained that he first noticed issues with his grip and strength at age 39, and the disease has progressed more rapidly than expected. Johnson now relies on a speech-generating device since he has lost his ability to speak. He hopes that sharing his story will help raise awareness and inspire research for the disease.
- •Chris Johnson was diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
- •He experienced symptoms like reduced grip strength starting at age 39.
- •Johnson uses a speech-generating device to communicate due to illness progression.
- •He aims to raise awareness about ALS and inspire hope for others.
- •Johnson's interview aired on June 29, 2026.
- 1:26 PMYahoo Sports — Former NFL RB reveals rapid ALS, uses speech generator to speak
"When speaking to Strahan, he would say, "At first it was little things like my grip didn't feel right, and I wasn't as strong as I'd always been."
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