Marshall Faulk revealed on Wednesday that he has Parkinson’s disease, sharing details during an interview on The Caring Neurologist with Dr. Sandeep Thakkar. The former St. Louis Rams running back and current Southern University head coach spoke openly about how the diagnosis has affected his life and his approach to coaching.
Faulk said he takes medication and does not experience many symptoms, but he monitors “little tremors” alongside his balance and walking. Despite the diagnosis, Faulk emphasized that his cognitive abilities remain intact. “My brain’s fine,” he said. “I feel clear of thought, and I guess that’s a good thing, whether it’s old age or whatever.”
Faulk wants to use his position to advocate for more affordable healthcare and better education about Parkinson’s disease. He acknowledged the challenges of living with the condition but remains focused on continuing his coaching career and daily activities.
After a standout NFL career from 1999 to 2005 with the Rams, where he won Super Bowl XXXIV and earned the 2000 NFL MVP award plus three consecutive NFL Offensive Player of the Year honours, Faulk transitioned into coaching. He began as the running backs coach under Deion Sanders at Colorado before accepting the head coach job at Southern University this year.
His NFL tenure included three first-team All-Pro selections and ended with induction into both the Pro Football and College Football Hall of Fame. Faulk’s announcement provides a rare glimpse into how a former star athlete navigates a neurodegenerative disease while maintaining a public role in sports.
Faulk’s openness about his Parkinson’s diagnosis comes amid increasing awareness of neurological issues affecting former NFL players. He highlighted early detection as a factor that has helped him manage the condition and maintain a positive outlook. His statement underlined the importance of medical care and education for those living with Parkinson’s.
The Southern University program confirmed Faulk’s condition but offered no further comment. Faulk’s interview wrapped around his personal experiences, his health management, and his desire to raise awareness for others facing similar challenges.
Faulk’s announcement is a rare public update on his health since taking over as Southern’s head coach, where he continues to lead his team while balancing treatment and advocacy.
According to Yahoo Sports.