What happened: Chris Johnson received his ALS diagnosis in May 2025 after weakness began in his right hand. He said time with his wife and four children now shapes how he measures each day.

Why it matters: Johnson said neurologists suspect his years in football may have played a role, though they cannot establish a direct cause. His experience adds another former player's voice to concerns about long-term neurological health in football.

What to watch: Johnson is participating in a clinical trial while advocating for more ALS research.