NFL legend Roger Craig reveals he has vascular dementia during Hall of Fame speech
The former San Francisco 49ers star running back spoke in a prerecorded video message while he sat on stage wearing his gold jacket at Tom Benson Stadium on Saturday.
Roger Craig revealed during his induction speech into the Pro Football Hall of Fame that he has vascular dementia.
Nearly eight minutes into a nine-minute speech, Craig announced his diagnosis, saying his doctors believe "it may be related, at least in part, to the concussions" he experienced during his playing career.
"The changes were gradual," Craig said. "At first, they were easy to dismiss as normal aging. Over time, my family noticed, too."
Symptoms of vascular dementia, according to the Mayo Clinic, include: confusion; trouble finding the right words; difficulty paying attention; trouble organizing thoughts or actions; difficulty planning and following through with plans; slowed thinking; uncertainty about what to do next; and memory issues.
"Two things could be true," Craig said. "Football gave me opportunities beyond anything I can imagine. It helped shape the man I became. At the same time, we know more today about brain health than when I played. I hope sharing my story encourages people to pay attention to their health and seek help when something doesn't feel right.