Former Minnesota Vikings Quarterback Tommy Kramer Reveals Dementia Diagnosis

Tommy Kramer, Ex-Vikings Star, Opens Up About His Dementia

On September 25, 2024, Tommy Kramer, a former standout quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, publicly shared his dementia diagnosis on social media. Now 69, Kramer spent the majority of his remarkable 14-year NFL career with the Vikings, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1986 after topping the league in passer rating.

Kramer’s Health Condition Announced on Social Media

On his X social media account, Kramer disclosed that he was officially diagnosed with the cognitive disorder over a year ago at the Cleveland Clinic. His diagnosis was part of a health and wellness initiative for retired NFL players. He was prompted to share his condition following Pro Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre’s recent announcement about his Parkinson’s disease at a congressional hearing.

Impact of Favre’s Parkinson’s Disclosure

Favre’s Parkinson’s diagnosis had been made public earlier in January. This news from another NFL legend led Kramer to share his own health struggle. During his one-year medical review, Kramer was informed by his physicians that his dementia had not progressed, and he had quit drinking alcohol to better manage it.

“No Sympathy” – Kramer’s Response to His Diagnosis

Kramer, however, asked for no sympathy. He wrote, “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.”

Born in San Antonio, Texas, Kramer was a first-round draft pick from Rice for the Vikings in 1977. He was affectionately known as “Two Minute Tommy” for his ability to turn games around in the final moments. One of his most famous moments came in 1980, when he threw a 46-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass to Ahmad Rashad, securing a comeback win over the Cleveland Browns and a division title for Minnesota. In that game alone, Kramer threw for 456 yards and four touchdowns.

Kramer ranks second only to Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton in Vikings’ passing yards history. Despite a career frequently interrupted by injuries, Kramer was a dedicated player, starting in all 16 games in the 1979 season. He ended his NFL career in 1990 with the New Orleans Saints.