Chris Johnson's Shocking ALS Diagnosis Stuns NFL Fans

If you're listing the best NFL running backs of the 21st century, it wouldn't be long until Chris Johnson's name comes up. He was one of the fastest, most dynamic running backs of all time. Nicknamed CJ2K for his 2,000 yard season in 2009, at his peak he was just as good as backs like Adrian Peterson and LaDainian Tomlinson.

In an interview with Michael Strahan of Good Morning America, Johnson shockingly revealed that he had been diagnosed with ALS in 2025. The disease had progressed so quickly that he was using a speech generating device (Johnson had recorded his voice prior to losing the ability to speak) to communicate with Strahan.

Johnson had been out of the spotlight after his NFL retirement, living a normal life working out and spending time with his four kids. His first inclination that something was wrong was when he noticed weakness in his grip.

ALS is a disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement. ALS affects all muscles, including ones that control breathing and swallowing, which is what makes it so deadly. Johnson makes it clear in the interview that his mind is still sharp, but his body is failing him.

In an effort to fight the disease, Johnson has collaborated with Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, one of the leading ALS researchers. They are looking for new, creative ways of treatment. According to Cudkowicz, Johnson was part of a new clinical trial which helped to decrease inflammation in his body.

Chris Johnson is only 40 years old, and has no family history of ALS. He stated on GMA:

"Honestly, I don't know if you ever fully process it. At first you're in shock, then you realize you have two choices: you can give up or you can fight. I chose to fight."

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This story was originally published June 29, 2026 at 9:57 AM.