NASHVILLE – Welcome to the latest edition of the Titans mailbag.
This one is going to focus on Chris Johnson, who on Monday, publicly announced on Good Morning America he has been diagnosed with ALS.
I admit, it was a tough interview to watch.
Even though I'd heard the night before the interview aired that Johnson's condition had declined so much that he was using his eyes to trigger a speech-generating device to speak, I was still shocked, and terribly saddened, to see Johnson in his current physical condition, weakened by a terrible disease.
I'll always remember him as the electrifying back who produced one highlight reel run after the next, and as the guy who has always been so kind, and approachable, no matter the topic.
I got to know Johnson pretty well during his playing days, and I've remained in touch with him in the years since. I've always told folks the years covering CJ2K were some of the most memorable in my career.
The last time I texted Johnson was on April 23, the night of the first round of the NFL Draft. He texted "I told you so" with a pair of laughing emojis after the Titans picked Carnell Tate in the draft. Johnson, of course, was the only person among 160 pollsters to tab Tate to the Titans in the mock draft roundup I compile each year.
The time before that was on April 15, when Johnson reached out inquiring about Coach Dave McGinnis, on the day of his passing. Johnson, who was battling ALS, had no idea McGinnis was sick, and was sad to hear the news.
I know a lot of Titans fans are still having a hard time processing Johnson's ALS diagnosis, and I admit, I am, too.
Since the day I first met Johnson as a 21-year-old, he's always been so full of life. And when I saw him at the Super Bowl in New Orleans last February, he was the same way, laughing and joking with his former teammate, Len'Dale White, who credits Johnson for saving his life after dealing with suicidal thoughts, and depression. I went back and watched that interview again last night, and again, it was hard to watch considering his decline over the last year.
I've included that interview below.
Today, Johnson is fighting for his life.
Please keep Johnson and his family in your prayers and thanks to those who've written in since yesterday.
Here's the link for those who want to share their own thoughts on C.J., or submit questions: CLICK HERE
McKeeg Russell from Elkhart, Texas
Question: Hey Jim. Not a question so much as a request. You at least have the ear if some Titan front office folks. I think the Titans should put out a request to EVERY fan to wear a CJ2K jersey to the home opener this season. Maybe even do t shirt jerseys to hand out. It would be a great way to honor his Titans legacy. Seeing an entire Nissan Stadium filled with 28s. Not sure if we can get it going but I thought it would be nice for him and his family.
Jim: A kind thought, McKeeg. Thanks for taking the time.
Cainan Treadwell from Linden, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim, hope all is well. Not a question, just more of sending my thoughts and prayers to CJ2K and his family. During his playing days he was a man that gave myself and the rest of the Titans fans hope and so many memorable moments. Now with his diagnosis he is inspiring so many more and showing just how strong he is. He is the definition of a Titan! Would love to see the org make t shirts to sell at the home opener or something, charge $28, and donate the proceeds to ALS research. He gave so much to all of us I feel like that would be a nice gesture. And also getting him in that Ring of Honor.
Jim: I'm with ya, Cainan.
Howard Turner from Atlanta, Georgia
Question: Waddup Jim "The Reason" Wyatt! #HopeAllIsWell
No question, just wanted to chime in and shout to the mountaintops #WeLoveYouCJ2K!
If I know us, this message will be a mere stitch in the massive mailbag love thread for 28 and his family.
CJ, I remember it like yesterday when you first graced the two-tone blue and carried us thru some highs and low times. You stole our collective hearts then which is why this news impacts us all now. Thank you for always showing up for us year after year. ALS may have taken out your ankle like the Ravens in the playoffs, but we know you're a warrior and forever a Titan. #KeepFighting28! #KeepRunning!!
AlwaysLove
TitanUp
Jim: Appreciate you chiming in, Howard.
Carlos Perez from Columbus, Indiana
Question: Hi Jim, hope all is going well. I wish this message was to share the excitement about next season, but after the devastating news about CJ2K health, I just want to say he is in all Titans fans prayers. CJ2K Up!
Jim: I know a lot of Titans fans are thinking, and praying, for C.J.
Suzanne Reyes from Tennessee
Question: Hi Jim. Not a question but my thoughts about Chris Johnson. I'm sure you'll get a lot of comments about CJ2K from Titans fans. I was shocked and saddened to hear the news about CJ2K. I never met him in person, but as season ticket holders my husband and I cheered him on as he tore it up in the league. It's interesting the connections we feel as Titans fans to players we've never met. I've shed some tears today upon hearing about his diagnosis and how quickly it's affected him. I've heard fans are donating $28 on behalf of CJ2K (28) and I plan to do the same. Blessings to Chris and his family.
Jim: C.J. is definitely one of a kind, a special talent and a really good guy. It's been really nice to see all the support and kindness for him in the last 24-36 hours.
Have a great week everyone.











