What happened: Emmitt Smith and Thurman Thomas joined the commissioner in honoring Chris Johnson. Goodell passed the challenge to the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.
Why it matters: Johnson revived the campaign after revealing his ALS diagnosis. The effort has renewed football-wide support for ALS awareness and research.
By the numbers: ALS Association giving tripled after Johnson's announcement. The original campaign raised an estimated $135 million in the United States and $220 million worldwide.
What to watch: Watch for members of the 2026 Hall of Fame class to accept the challenge and extend the fundraising drive.