49ers legend Roger Craig reveals shocking diagnosis at Hall of Fame ceremony

During the Pro Football Hall of Fame ceremony Saturday at Canton, Ohio, San Francisco 49ers legendary running back Roger Craig revealed that he has been diagnosed with vascular dementia.

Craig, who turned 66 in July, delivered the news of his illness in a prerecorded video during the ceremony. He also said doctors indicated his dementia could be related to a concussion he sustained during his playing career.

“Two things can be true,” Craig said. “Football gave me opportunities beyond anything I could imagine. It helped shape the man I became. At the same time, we know more today about brain health than when I played, and I hope sharing my story encourages people to pay attention to their health and seek help when something doesn’t feel right.”

He said his intention to share his diagnosis is to help others.

“The changes were gradual,” Craig said. “At first, they were easy to dismiss as normal aging. Over time, my family noticed it, too. Ultimately, it led us to seek answers from my doctor.”

Although Craig will deal with a life-changing illness, he said that will not define who he is.

“I am still Roger Craig. I am still a father, a husband, a teammate, a friend, and someone who loves this game and the people who brought it to my life,” Craig said. “If sharing my story helps even one family or one former player, then it’s worth it. Football gave me everything.”

Former San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig reveals he’s been diagnosed with vascular dementia at the NFL Hall of Fame ceremony. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Saturday’s induction to the Hall of Fame was long overdue for Craig, who waited 28 years to receive the sport’s highest individual honor.

Former San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig at the NFL Hall of Fame Game in Canton Ohio. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Craig had an 11-year NFL career, playing eight seasons with the 49ers, one season with the Los Angeles Raiders and two with the Minnesota Vikings.

Craig was the first player to rush for more than 1,000 yards and have more than 1,000 receiving yards in a season.

In 1988, he was crowned the NFL’s MVP when he ran for a career-high 1,502 yards with nine touchdowns, averaging 4.8 yards per carry.