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Former Green Bay Packers Star Ahman Green Announces Early-Onset Parkinsons Diagnosis
Ahman Green, the Green Bay Packers’ all‑time leading rusher, revealed in a July 29, 2026 interview on the Go Long podcast hosted by Tyler Dunne that he has been diagnosed with early‑onset Parkinson’s disease.
The 49‑year‑old former running back said the first signs appeared after he hung up his cleats in 2009. He described a twitching in his feet while sleeping, followed by brief episodes of short‑term memory loss and sleep‑talking. A battery of neurological tests finally confirmed the diagnosis in January 2025.
Green’s NFL career spanned 12 seasons, with stints at the Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers and Houston Texans. He rushed for 9,205 yards in total, 8,322 of those with the Packers, and earned four Pro‑Bowl selections while in Green Bay.
He kept the news private until he had spoken with his children and close family. “I wanted to let my kids know, my family… before I told friends, family, somebody like yourself,” he said.
In the interview, Green emphasized his focus on healthy living—regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and medication—to manage the disease’s symptoms. He also highlighted the broader conversation about head trauma and neurodegenerative disease in football, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and public awareness.
Research links repeated head injuries to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Studies cited in the article explain how concussions and other traumatic brain injuries can damage neuronal circuits, potentially raising the likelihood of Parkinson’s later in life.
Early‑onset Parkinson’s is defined as the condition occurring in people under 50. While the disease most commonly affects older adults, it can develop earlier, as in Green’s case. Symptoms typically include tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability, as well as non‑motor issues such as sleep disturbances and cognitive changes. There is currently no cure; treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms through medication, lifestyle changes, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.
Green’s announcement has drawn attention from fans, former teammates and the broader sports community. The Packers organization has not issued an official statement, but the league’s public health initiatives continue to monitor the long‑term health of former players.
The diagnosis underscores the need for continued research into the causes and treatment of Parkinson’s disease, particularly in populations exposed to repetitive head trauma. It also highlights the importance of early screening for neurodegenerative conditions among retired athletes.
As of now, Green is managing his condition with medication and a disciplined routine. No new treatments have been announced, and the NFL and medical community are continuing to study the links between football and Parkinson’s. Green’s openness may encourage other former players to seek early evaluation if they experience similar symptoms.
The situation remains evolving, with ongoing research into preventive strategies and therapeutic options. Green’s public advocacy may help raise awareness and support for those affected by Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
The 49‑year‑old former running back said the first signs appeared after he hung up his cleats in 2009. He described a twitching in his feet while sleeping, followed by brief episodes of short‑term memory loss and sleep‑talking. A battery of neurological tests finally confirmed the diagnosis in January 2025.
Green’s NFL career spanned 12 seasons, with stints at the Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers and Houston Texans. He rushed for 9,205 yards in total, 8,322 of those with the Packers, and earned four Pro‑Bowl selections while in Green Bay.
He kept the news private until he had spoken with his children and close family. “I wanted to let my kids know, my family… before I told friends, family, somebody like yourself,” he said.
In the interview, Green emphasized his focus on healthy living—regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and medication—to manage the disease’s symptoms. He also highlighted the broader conversation about head trauma and neurodegenerative disease in football, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and public awareness.
Research links repeated head injuries to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Studies cited in the article explain how concussions and other traumatic brain injuries can damage neuronal circuits, potentially raising the likelihood of Parkinson’s later in life.
Early‑onset Parkinson’s is defined as the condition occurring in people under 50. While the disease most commonly affects older adults, it can develop earlier, as in Green’s case. Symptoms typically include tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability, as well as non‑motor issues such as sleep disturbances and cognitive changes. There is currently no cure; treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms through medication, lifestyle changes, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.
Green’s announcement has drawn attention from fans, former teammates and the broader sports community. The Packers organization has not issued an official statement, but the league’s public health initiatives continue to monitor the long‑term health of former players.
The diagnosis underscores the need for continued research into the causes and treatment of Parkinson’s disease, particularly in populations exposed to repetitive head trauma. It also highlights the importance of early screening for neurodegenerative conditions among retired athletes.
As of now, Green is managing his condition with medication and a disciplined routine. No new treatments have been announced, and the NFL and medical community are continuing to study the links between football and Parkinson’s. Green’s openness may encourage other former players to seek early evaluation if they experience similar symptoms.
The situation remains evolving, with ongoing research into preventive strategies and therapeutic options. Green’s public advocacy may help raise awareness and support for those affected by Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
