Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer has publicly revealed that he has been diagnosed with dementia, following in the footsteps of fellow NFL legend Brett Favre, who recently disclosed his own battle with Parkinson’s disease. Inspired by Favre’s openness, Kramer, 69, took to social media to share his diagnosis and raise awareness for other former players facing similar challenges.
Kramer, who spent 14 seasons in the NFL—13 of which were with the Vikings—was a Pro Bowl selection in 1986 and is remembered for his toughness and competitiveness on the field. In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Kramer explained why he decided to go public with his diagnosis, which he received over a year ago.
“With Brett Favre’s announcement yesterday, I feel it’s best I let everyone know that I was diagnosed with dementia just over a year ago at the NFL Cleveland Clinic,” Kramer wrote. “Doctors say I could have anywhere from 2 to 10 years, but I just had my yearly check-up, and the condition hasn’t advanced. I’ve been sober for almost a year now, which will definitely help.”
Kramer made it clear he doesn’t want sympathy, emphasizing that he’s lived a full life and has no regrets. “Please, no sympathy,” he added. “I’ve lived a great life and wouldn’t change a thing. Nobody wanted to win more than me, and I never gave up, and that’s exactly how I’m going to battle this.”
Kramer also reflected on the risks associated with playing professional football and acknowledged that illnesses like dementia can be part of that reality. “Football is the life we chose to live, and sometimes stuff like this can happen. I’m grateful to the NFL for the opportunity and am glad they are trying to do things to protect today’s players.”
While Kramer noted that he is financially secure, he expressed concern for other former players who may be struggling, either with similar health issues or financially. He explained that while the NFL is covering some of his medical bills and therapy, he hopes to use his platform to bring attention to the needs of other players who aren’t as fortunate.
“I’m hoping to bring some awareness so the NFL will be able to help others and future players who are battling illnesses like myself,” Kramer said.
Despite his diagnosis, Kramer remains determined to stay engaged with fans and continue to make public appearances as long as he is able. “It’s still all about the fans for me. As long as I’m able, I’m going to continue to be out there and travel to the small towns, which I love most, and meet the fans,” he said. He ended his message with a hopeful note: “Thank you for all the support and always remember, ‘We’re not here for a long time, we’re here for a good time.’”
Born in Texas, Kramer was selected in the first round of the 1977 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, where he became one of the franchise’s most notable quarterbacks. He currently ranks second in Vikings history for passing yards, trailing only the legendary Fran Tarkenton. Kramer played his final NFL season with the New Orleans Saints before retiring from the game.
Kramer’s decision to go public with his diagnosis came just days after Brett Favre, the Hall of Fame quarterback who spent most of his career with the Green Bay Packers, shared his own battle with Parkinson’s disease at a Congressional hearing. Favre revealed his diagnosis while testifying about welfare misspending and discussing the issue of concussions in football. He had previously been open about the thousands of concussions he suffered during his 20-year NFL career.
At the hearing, Favre shared his disappointment in a failed investment in Prevacus, a concussion drug company he had supported. “Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others,” Favre said. “I’m sure you’ll understand, while it’s too late for me because I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, this is also a cause dear to my heart.”
Parkinson’s disease, a progressive brain disorder, affects movement and coordination, often causing stiffness, shaking, and difficulty with balance. Though the exact cause is unknown, it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Following his testimony, Favre took to social media to thank fans for their support as he embarks on this new challenge.
“I want to thank God for all He has done in my life,” Favre wrote. “Next, thanks to Congress for giving me the platform to discuss a much-needed TANF reform. As you know, I was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, which has been an ordeal. My wife, family, and friends have been supportive, and I want to thank them for being there for me. To my fans and those wishing well—thank you all for the love.”
The courageous decisions by both Kramer and Favre to share their diagnoses have sparked discussions about the long-term health risks faced by former NFL players, particularly related to head injuries and brain trauma.
As the NFL continues to grapple with how to best protect players from these issues, the stories of Kramer and Favre are powerful reminders of the sacrifices athletes make and the potential consequences of a life dedicated to the game.
