Tommy Kramer in June 2024
MINNEAPOLIS (KFGO) — Longtime Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer announced on Wednesday afternoon that he has been diagnosed with dementia.
Kramer, 69, said he had been diagnosed just over a year ago at the NFL Cleveland Clinic.
“I’ve lived a great life and wouldn’t change a thing. Nobody wanted to win more than me and I never gave up, and that’s exactly how I’m going to battle this. Football is the life we chose to live and sometimes stuff like this can happen,” he said.
He added that he is trying to bring awareness so the NFL will be able to help future players who are battling illnesses like dementia.
“Dr’s say I could have anywhere from 2 to 10 years, just had my year check up and it hasn’t advanced and I’ve been sober for almost a year now which will definitely help. Please, no sympathy, I’ve lived a great life and wouldn’t change a thing. Nobody wanted to win more than me and I never gave up, and that’s exactly how I’m going to battle this.”
Kramer was drafted by the Vikings in 1977, and played 13 seasons with the team, through the 1989 season. He played in one game with the New Orleans Saints in 1990. Nicknamed “Two-Minute Tommy” for his signature 4th quarter comebacks, Kramer threw for 24,775 yards and 159 touchdowns as a Viking. He was named 1986 Comeback Player of the Year after throwing for 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, and leading the league in passer rating for the season.
Comments