Former San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig has officially been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but there were no speeches to a crowd at a podium.
Instead, Craig sat with other greats such as Joe Montana and Steve Young as former 49ers teammate Jamie Williams presented him. Craig delivered his induction speech via pre-recorded video — one where he revealed he has been diagnosed with vascular dementia.
“The changes were gradual,” Craig said during the video. “At first, they were easy
to dismiss as normal aging. Over time, my family noticed, too.”
Craig said doctors believe concussions suffered during his NFL career could be linked.
“Two things can be true,” Craig said. “Football gave me opportunities beyond anything I could imagine. It helped shape the man I became. At the same time, we know more today about brain health than when I played.
“And I hope, sharing my story encourages people to pay attention to their health.”
Craig was selected by the 49ers in the second round of the 1983 NFL draft and thrived in Bill Walsh’s West Coast offense. He was the first player in NFL history to have both 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in a single season. Add this along with his three Super Bowl rings, and it could be argued a Hall of Fame introduction has been long overdue.
“I want people to know this diagnosis doesn’t define me. I am still Roger Craig. I am still a father, a husband, a teammate, a friend and someone who loves this game and the people who brought it to my life. If sharing my story helps even one family or one former player, then it’s worth it.”
