Former NFL running back Chris Johnson has revealed that his ALS diagnosis has progressed rapidly, forcing him to rely on a speech-generating device.
The three-time Pro Bowl athlete shared his health update on ABC's "Good Morning America" on Monday.
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Johnson, now 39, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis last year.
The progressive neurological condition destroys motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movements.
During the interview, Johnson communicated using a system built from past recordings of his own voice.
He explained that there is no history of ALS in his family, and doctors believe his case is sporadic ALS, which accounts for the vast majority of cases.
"That's one of the reasons this disease can be so shocking. It can happen to someone who never expected it," Johnson said.
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A Storied NFL Career
Johnson spent the majority of his 10-season career with the Tennessee Titans from 2008 to 2013. He also played for the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals.
Known as CJ2K, he remains one of only seven players in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season, achieving the feat in 2009.
Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk expressed support for Johnson.
"Learning this news is extremely difficult, and we will support Chris every step of the way throughout his journey," she said.
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"His leadership on the field, in addition to his impact in the locker room and the Nashville community have written him permanently into the story of this franchise."
