August 8, 2026 / 2:30 PM EDT
/ AP
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Roger Craig revealed during his induction speech into the Pro Football Hall of Fame that he has vascular dementia.The former San Francisco 49ers star running back spoke in a prerecorded video message while he sat on stage wearing his gold jacket at Tom Benson Stadium in Canton, Ohio, on Saturday. Presented by former teammate Jamie Williams, he received a standing ovation from the crowd and hugs from the many Hall of Famers on stage.Nearly eight minutes into a nine-minute speech, Craig announced his diagnosis, saying his doctors believe "it may be related, at least in part, to the concussions" he experienced during his playing career."The changes were gradual," Craig said. "At first, they were easy to dismiss as normal aging. Over time, my family noticed, too."
Former NFL player Roger Craig, center, poses with other Hall of Famers after unveiling his bust during the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 8, 2026.
