Larry Johnson, once a dominant force in the NFL, now grapples with the profound consequences of his illustrious career. The Kansas City Chiefs tailback, who retired in 2011, reflects on the toll football has taken on his mental health, suspecting he suffers from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma.

During his peak in the mid-2000s, CTE was not widely acknowledged, despite evidence suggesting the risks involved. Johnson's career, marked by impressive statistics, included a record-breaking 1,789 rushing yards in a single season. However, he now struggles with memory loss and cognitive issues, recalling little beyond 2006 and 2007.

Johnson's challenges extend beyond memory loss; he has faced mental health crises, including intrusive thoughts and paranoia. He describes a chaotic life post-football, filled with failed job attempts and strained relationships, particularly with his daughter and father, who only fully understood his struggles after a 2017 article brought them to light.

Despite the turmoil, Johnson found some stability when the NFL granted him lifetime disability benefits, allowing him to focus on his health. He now aims to help fellow former players by creating an app connecting them with mental health resources, addressing the stigma surrounding these issues.

Johnson's journey highlights the ongoing battle against CTE awareness and the need for better support systems for former athletes. As he navigates his life, he remains haunted by the potential consequences of the sport he once loved, advocating for change while reflecting on the physical and mental scars left behind.