Brett Favre, the iconic Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback, has publicly shared his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. He revealed the diagnosis, which he received in January, in an interview with TMZ Sports, explaining that he first noticed symptoms when he began experiencing difficulty with his right arm. Favre described struggling to perform simple tasks like holding a screwdriver steadily.
Favre’s disclosure came amidst his testimony before a congressional committee investigating a welfare misspending scandal in Mississippi. While the TMZ Sports interview was conducted in late August, Favre requested that the information be held until after his congressional hearing. He has now given permission for his diagnosis to be reported.
The former Green Bay Packers star detailed the onset of his symptoms, noting that his right arm would feel “stuck.” He clarified that his strength wasn’t diminished, but he lacked control and coordination. “I felt my arm, the strength was there, but I could not guide it,” Favre told TMZ Sports, emphasizing the frustration he experienced. This prompted him to consult his physician, particularly when he encountered difficulties putting on a jacket.
Following his initial concerns, Favre consulted with five Parkinson’s specialists. According to Favre, these specialists suggested a connection between head trauma sustained throughout his football career and the development of Parkinson’s. Favre himself acknowledged the potential link, stating, “Well, hell, I wrote the book on head trauma,” alluding to his long and impactful NFL career where he estimates he sustained “thousands” of concussions.
Adding to the conversation surrounding Favre’s diagnosis, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who previously played alongside Favre in Green Bay, commented on the news. Rodgers acknowledged the unfortunate prevalence of such health issues in football, stating, “It’s actually unfortunately more normal to hear about a death or a cancer diagnosis or a diagnosis like this. And it doesn’t desensitize it for me. I mean, I feel bad for him and (his wife) Deanna, but it’s unfortunately part of our game. That’s part of the risk of playing.”
Favre’s career is distinguished by remarkable durability and success. He holds the NFL record for consecutive starts at 297 games, extending to 321 including playoff appearances. During his time with the Green Bay Packers (1992-2007), he earned three consecutive MVP awards from 1995 to 1997 and led the team to victory in Super Bowl XXXI. He also played for the Atlanta Falcons, New York Jets, and Minnesota Vikings before retiring after the 2010 season, solidifying his legacy as one of football’s greats.
Favre’s openness about his Parkinson’s diagnosis brings further attention to the long-term health concerns faced by NFL players, particularly the potential impact of repeated head trauma. His willingness to share his experience may encourage greater awareness and further research into the connection between football and neurodegenerative diseases.
