Ex-Vikings QB Tommy Kramer Diagnosed with Dementia: Fights Bravely, Rejects Pity

Wednesday, September 25th, 2024

Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer, who is now 69, has announced on social media that he has been diagnosed with dementia.

Kramer spent 13 of his 14 NFL seasons with the Vikings and was selected for the Pro Bowl in 1986 after leading the league in passer rating. He was inspired to share his diagnosis after Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre recently revealed his own battle with Parkinson's disease.

Kramer's doctors have confirmed that his dementia has not progressed since it was diagnosed a year ago. In his efforts to manage the condition, he has stopped consuming alcohol.

Kramer was drafted first overall by the Vikings in 1977 and earned the nickname "Two Minute Tommy" for his clutch performances in late-game situations. One of his most memorable moments was in 1980 when his 46-yard touchdown pass, famously known as the "Miracle on the Mississippi," secured a division title for Minnesota.

Despite enduring numerous injuries throughout his career, Kramer is second in Vikings history for passing yards, trailing only Fran Tarkenton. He became the team's starter in 1979, the only season he played all 16 games. His NFL career concluded with the New Orleans Saints in 1990.

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