Ex-NFL star Chris Johnson shares heartbreaking ALS update on 41st birthday days after Ring of Honor absence
Johnson is now relying on an eye-controlled communication device and his family for everyday tasks as he continues his battle with ALS
Former NFL star Chris Johnson has opened up about the devastating impact of his ALS diagnosis as the former Tennessee Titans running back marked his 41st birthday.
Speaking to People from his wheelchair, Johnson explained how the disease has dramatically changed his everyday life. He now communicates with the help of a speech-generating tablet controlled by his eyes, while his wife, Brittany , and other family members assist him with many basic tasks.
“ALS has taken away a lot of my independence,” Johnson told People. “As a father, your first instinct is to protect your kids. You don't want them to be scared or feel like their whole world is changing.”
One of the hardest parts of the illness for Johnson is knowing that his mind remains completely active while his body continues to lose its abilities.
Johnson was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in May 2025 after initially noticing weakness in his right hand. Since then, the disease has progressed significantly.
He can no longer speak independently and requires a CPAP machine to assist with breathing. His family also helps him eat, get dressed and complete physical exercises.
Brittany has become Johnson’s primary caregiver, a responsibility she has described as her calling. Johnson has stressed that ALS hasn't affected only him, but has changed the lives of everyone in his household.
Chris Johnson remains focused on his family
Despite the enormous challenges, Johnson continues to look toward the future and remains deeply involved in his children's lives. His sons still play football, and although his own experience has changed the way he views the sport, he hasn't told them to give it up.
“I want them to understand the risks and take care of their bodies,” said Johnson . “If football's what they love, and that's the path they choose, I'm going to support them. More than anything, I want my kids to be healthy, happy and able to build lives they love.”
His diagnosis has also prompted questions about whether his years playing football could have contributed to his illness. Johnson has said his doctors haven't told him that football or head trauma caused his ALS, and they haven't identified one specific reason for his diagnosis.
Research has nevertheless examined possible links between football and ALS. A 2026 study of former NFL players found an elevated rate of ALS deaths, particularly among players who died before reaching 50.
Researchers said the findings warrant further investigation into whether repetitive head impacts could be connected to motor-neuron disease. The research doesn't prove that football caused Johnson's illness.
His health struggles also forced the Titans to postpone his Ring of Honor induction ceremony in Nashville. Johnson and his family were unable to make the trip because of his rapidly progressing condition.
Still, Johnson remains hopeful. He has indicated that treatment is helping slow the progression of the disease, although his long-term prognosis remains uncertain.
His biggest motivation is his family. Johnson wants to watch his sons grow into adulthood and hopes he'll someday be able to walk his daughter down the aisle.
