Roger Craig Reveals Vascular Dementia Diagnosis, Suspects Link to NFL Concussions
During his induction speech into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, former NFL player Roger Craig announced he has been diagnosed with vascular dementia, which he believes may be linked to concussions from his playing career.
Houston, TX, August 8, 2026 —
Roger Craig, a former NFL player, announced during his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction speech that he has been diagnosed with vascular dementia. The announcement was made in Canton, Ohio.
Craig, whose playing career spanned several seasons in the National Football League, stated his belief that the diagnosis may be connected to concussions he sustained during his time as a player. The specific details of his playing career and the number of concussions he experienced were not provided in the announcement.
Vascular dementia is a condition characterized by a decline in thinking skills caused by conditions that block blood flow to the brain. The NFL has faced ongoing scrutiny and numerous lawsuits regarding the long-term health effects of head injuries, including concussions, sustained by its players. The league has implemented various measures over the years aimed at player safety and addressing concussion protocols.
The full extent of Craig’s condition and any subsequent plans or treatments were not detailed in his speech. Further information regarding his diagnosis and its potential implications for other former players was not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.
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