Former NFL running back Chris Johnson is working to revive the Ice Bucket Challenge as he wages his own personal battle against ALS, a deadly disease that attacks the nervous system.
The Ice Bucket Challenge first swept the nation in the summer of 2014, encouraging people to film or photograph themselves having a bucket of ice-cold water poured over their heads, then daring friends and family to do the same. The viral movement made a significant impact — the ALS Therapy Development Institute reports it generated roughly $135 million in the United States and approximately $220 million across the globe for ALS research and treatment efforts.
Johnson made his push to restart the challenge through an Instagram post on Wednesday, just two days after he publicly revealed his diagnosis on “Good Morning America.” He said the inspiration came after watching a video posted by former Utah men’s basketball player Hunter Mecum, who poured ice water over himself in a show of support for the 40-year-old former running back.
“The support you’ve shown me over the last few days has meant more than I can put into words,” Johnson wrote in his post. “Seeing this video reminded me of something powerful. Years ago, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge united millions of people around one cause and helped change the fighting against this disease. Today, I’m asking you to help me do it again.”
Johnson specifically called out former All-Pro running back Marshawn Lynch, along with ex-Tennessee Titans teammates LenDale White and Adam “Pacman” Jones, urging them to take part. He later shared Instagram Story clips showing White and others getting soaked in the challenge.
During his “Good Morning America” appearance, Johnson disclosed that he received his ALS diagnosis last year.
A first-round draft pick in 2008 out of East Carolina, Johnson had a standout 10-year career in the NFL that included time with the Titans from 2008 to 2013, the New York Jets in 2014, and the Arizona Cardinals from 2015 to 2017. His best season came in 2009, when he rushed for 2,006 yards and earned The Associated Press offensive player of the year honor. Over his entire career, he accumulated 9,651 rushing yards.
