Ahman Green Reveals Early Onset Parkinson's Diagnosis
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
The Packers' all-time rushing leader says he learned last year that he has the disease, sharing symptoms and an optimistic outlook.
Q: What news has former NFL running back Ahman Green shared regarding his health?
A: As Sportsnet first reported, Ahman Green revealed on Tyler Dunne’s “Go Long” podcast that he was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease last year. The 49-year-old former Green Bay Packers star described the condition as a neurologic disease that impairs movement control, often manifesting as stiff limbs, slurred speech, balance issues, a shuffling gait, and tremors.
Q: What were the early warning signs of the disease for Green?
A: Reporting from Sportsnet indicates that Green noticed something was wrong well before his official diagnosis. He specifically noted that his symptoms became apparent when his feet began twitching while he slept. Green also mentioned that he occasionally sleepwalks without remembering the episodes and described his short-term memory as “trash,” though he noted his long-term memory remains stronger.
Q: How does Green view his prognosis and current lifestyle?
A: Despite the diagnosis, Sportsnet reports that Green remains optimistic. He maintains a “super clean” diet and exercises on a regular basis to manage his health. Regarding his mortality, Green stated on the podcast, “I know unfortunately there’s a day we eventually, where our clock stops ticking,” but added that his clock will stop only when he wants it to.
Q: What is the significance of Green's career in the context of the NFL's physical demands?
A: Green represents the era of the powerhouse back, enduring a 12-year career that ended in 2009. As reported by Sportsnet, he is the Green Bay Packers’ career rushing leader with 8,322 yards and once set a franchise single-season record with 1,883 yards in 2003. Over his entire career—which included stints with the Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans—he accumulated 9,205 rushing yards and 60 touchdowns. His physical dominance earned him four consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2001 to 2004.
Q: Is there a connection between Green's diagnosis and other former teammates?
A: Yes. Sportsnet notes that Green's announcement follows a similar disclosure by former Packers teammate and Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre, who revealed he has Parkinson’s disease two years ago. Green mentioned that he spoke with Favre recently and intends to call him to let the quarterback know that “he has a brother right behind him.”