Strahan Defends Approach to Chris Johnson ALS Interview

Broadcaster Michael Strahan has defended his approach to a recent emotional interview with former NFL star Chris Johnson, who revealed his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Strahan, speaking on "The Dan Patrick Show" on Tuesday, July, 28, 2026, addressed criticism that he did not ask Johnson whether his professional football career contributed to the disease.

The interview, which aired on ABC's "Good Morning America" in late June, featured Johnson publicly disclosing his ALS diagnosis for the first time. The former Tennessee Titans running back, known as "CJ2K" for his 2,000-yard season in 2009, explained he first noticed weakness in his right hand before being diagnosed in 2025. During the segment, Johnson emphasized that the disease had not changed his identity, stating he wanted people to know he was still himself.

Some viewers and commentators questioned why Strahan avoided directly asking about the potential link between football and ALS, a topic of ongoing scientific and public debate. Research, including a 2021 study cited in coverage, has indicated former NFL players face a significantly higher risk of dying from neurodegenerative diseases like ALS...