Tommy Kramer, the former quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings and a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, announced that he has been diagnosed with dementia.

Kramer shared this news on social media on Wednesday, stating that following Brett Favre’s announcement about his Parkinson’s disease on Tuesday, he felt it was important to share his situation. His dementia diagnosis came just over a year ago.

“Doctors indicate I might have between 2 to 10 years, and after my recent check-up, there’s no advancement. I’ve been sober for almost a year, which should definitely aid in my situation,” he shared. “Please, don’t feel sorry for me; I’ve had an incredible life and wouldn’t alter a thing. No one wanted to win more than I did, and I never backed down, which is how I intend to confront this challenge. Football was the life I embraced, and sometimes unforeseen events occur. I’m thankful to the NFL for the opportunities I’ve received and appreciate their efforts to protect present players.”

Kramer expressed that he is financially stable, but that the NFL will only extend assistance for medical expenses and therapy costs that his insurance doesn’t cover. He aims to raise awareness “so the NFL can assist others and future players facing health challenges like mine.”

After a distinguished career at Rice University, where he broke multiple records, Kramer was selected in the first round of the 1977 NFL draft by the Vikings, succeeding Fran Tarkenton. He became the starting quarterback in 1979 and held that position until 1989. His peak performance came in 1986 when he passed for 3,000 yards and achieved 24 touchdowns, leading the league with a passer rating of 92.6. This earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl, a second-team All-Pro designation, and the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.

Kramer played his final NFL game with the New Orleans Saints in 1990 before retiring. His career totaled 24,777 passing yards, 159 touchdowns, and 158 interceptions across 14 NFL seasons. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

“It’s always about the fans for me. As long as I’m able, I’ll keep traveling to small towns and connecting with the supporters. I appreciate all the encouragement, and remember, “We’re here for a good time, not a long time,” he concluded.