49ers Legend Roger Craig Announces Dementia Diagnosis in Pro Football HOF Induction Speech

San Francisco 49ers legend Roger Craig used part of his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction speech on Saturday to announce he has been diagnosed with dementia.

Craig revealed the diagnosis in his pre-taped speech before declaring "this does not define me."

Craig went on to say he is "grateful" for everything the sport of football gave him and his family, while also explaining the 49ers teams he was on were "chasing wins" as he was "making history" when he surpassed the 1,000-yard mark as a rusher and receiver in 1985.

Dementia is a neurocognitive disorder that is caused by damage to the brain cells. Craig was diagnosed with vascular dementia.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, "any condition that damages blood vessels anywhere in the body" can cause vascular dementia.

There is no specific treatment for the disorder, but some drugs approved to treat Alzheimer's can offer a "modest benefit" to people with vascular dementia.

Craig was selected for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2026 by the senior committee. He played 11 seasons in the NFL from 1983 to '93.

A second-round pick by the 49ers in the 1983 draft, Craig was a vital part of the legendary core assembled by head coach Bill Walsh that also included Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Ronnie Lott and Charles Haley.

Craig became the first player in NFL history to have 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season when he accomplished the feat in 1985. He ranks third in 49ers history in rushing yards (7,064) and 12th in receiving yards (4,442).

After leaving San Francisco following the 1990 season, Craig had stints with the Los Angeles Raiders and Minnesota Vikings. He signed a one-day contract with the 49ers following the 1993 season to formally retire as a member of the organization.

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