Ex-Minnesota Vikings QB Tommy Kramer has dementia; given 2 to 10 years to live

26 September (UPI) — Tommy Kramer, the former quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, revealed on social media that he had been diagnosed with dementia and was given two to ten years to live.

Kramer revealed the news on Facebook, Instagram, and X on Wednesday. He explained his disclosure of the brain ailment in part by referencing Brett Favre’s admission the previous day that he suffers from Parkinson’s disease.
“With Brett Favre’s announcement [Tuesday], I feel it’s best I let everyone know that I was diagnosed with dementia just over a year ago at the NFL Cleveland Clinic,” Kramer wrote in a letter.

According to the doctors, I might have two to ten years. I recently had my annual evaluation, and it hasn’t progressed. Additionally, I’ve been clean for nearly a year, which will undoubtedly be beneficial.

“Please, no sympathy. I’ve lived a great life and wouldn’t change a thing. Nobody wanted to win more than me and I never gave up, and that’s exactly how I’m going to battle this.”

69-year-old Kramer was selected by the Vikings with the 27th overall choice in the 1977 NFL Draft. Of his 14 seasons, he was with the team for 13. The 1990 season was Kramer’s last, and he played for the New Orleans Saints. When he led the league in passer rating in 1986, the former Rice standout was selected for the Pro Bowl.

Kramer made 129 NFL game appearances. With 24,775 passing yards and 54 wins as a starting quarterback, he is second only in Vikings history to Pro Football Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton.

“Football is the life we chose to live and sometimes stuff like this can happen,” Kramer stated. “I’m appreciative of the NFL for the chance and happy that they’re making efforts to

protect today’s players.

“Financially, I’m fine, but I know there are players out there who I played with that need all the help they can get.

“Unfortunately for me, the NFL will only try to help out with any of my medical bills and therapy what my personal insurance won’t cover. I’m hoping to bring some awareness so the NFL will be able to help others and future players who are battling illnesses like myself.

“For me, it’s still all about the fans. I’ll keep touring, visit the tiny communities that I adore, and interact with the fans for as long as I can. We appreciate all of your support, and we always want to remember that our main goal is to have fun—not to stay here for the long run.”