Chris Johnson, One of Fantasy Football's All-Time RBs, Reveals ALS Diagnosis at 39

Chris Johnson Reveals ALS Diagnosis

Chris Johnson, the former Tennessee Titans running back and one of the most dominant fantasy football players of his era, has revealed he was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) last year at age 39. Johnson disclosed the diagnosis in a "Good Morning America" interview with co-anchor Michael Strahan that aired Monday.

Johnson said he first noticed weakness in his right hand in 2025, finding he could not grip or lift weights the way he used to. His wife Brittany initially suspected the issue was related to wear and tear from his football career, possibly a pinched nerve. The ALS diagnosis came as a shock.

"At first, you're in shock," Johnson said. "Then you realize you have two choices. You can give up, or you can fight. I chose to fight."

Johnson said his doctors believe he has sporadic ALS, which accounts for the vast majority of ALS cases, as there is no history of the disease in his family. He noted that a medication his doctor discussed may extend his life by only a few months, and that he and his wife were advised to get their affairs in order.

ALS is a degenerative neurological disorder that progressively takes away a person's ability to move, speak, swallow, and breathe. There is currently no known cure.

A Fantasy Football Legend

For fantasy football players who were active in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Johnson's career needs little introduction. Nicknamed CJ2K, he was selected by the Titans in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft and made the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons.