Ex-Teammates' Bond Shines After NFL Star's ALS Diagnosis

When Chris Johnson, one of only nine NFL players to ever rush for 2,000 yards in a season, announced his ALS diagnosis this week, former teammate Ryan Fitzpatrick immediately looked back at their text messages. What he found was a signed football that said "To my cool White boy. Congrats on number 100."

The two played together for just one season on the Tennessee Titans over a decade ago. Yet that single year forged a connection that's lasted ever since.

"He was a great teammate when I got to play with him for the one year, and obviously a super talented guy on the football field," Fitzpatrick shared in a recent interview. The signed football commemorated Fitzpatrick's 100th career touchdown pass, which went to Johnson.

The diagnosis is particularly challenging because ALS attacks the body while the mind remains sharp. "You can just imagine the frustrations of his mind being there but his body starting to fail him," Fitzpatrick said, sending love and support to Johnson's family.

Johnson played in the NFL from 2008 to 2017 with the Titans, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. In his social media announcement, he noted growing research showing links between repetitive head trauma and ALS, with studies indicating NFL players are four times as likely to develop the disease.

Why This Inspires

Despite the serious diagnosis, this story shows how genuine relationships formed through shared challenges can last a lifetime. Fitzpatrick and Johnson stayed connected long after their playing days together ended, checking in and celebrating each other's milestones.

Their friendship represents thousands of similar bonds across the NFL. Players who spent just months together on a roster often maintain connections for decades, supporting each other through life's toughest battles.

Fitzpatrick, now 43, acknowledged that aging brings difficult realities. He lost his mother five years ago and watched his high school best friend battle ALS. Yet he emphasized that these connections make the journey more bearable.

The football community has rallied around Johnson since his announcement, demonstrating the sport's capacity to create family beyond blood relations. Former teammates, opponents, and fans have flooded social media with messages of support.

While there's currently no cure for ALS, Johnson faces his diagnosis surrounded by a brotherhood that will stand with him every step of the way.