Former Denver Broncos superstar John Elway tells Fox News Digital his reaction to Brett Favre's Parkinson's diagnosis.
NFL legend John Elway has reacted to the news of Brett Favre's Parkinson's diagnosis, calling it "sad news to hear."
"He's a great player, a great competitor, and a great friend," Elway told Fox News Digital. "It's just sad news to hear that he's going through this."
NFL Legend John Elway Reacts to Brett Favre's Parkinson's Diagnosis
Favre, 52, announced last week that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. He said he had been experiencing symptoms for about a year, including problems with his right arm and difficulty putting on long-sleeve shirts.
Elway said he had not spoken to Favre since his diagnosis, but he planned to reach out to him soon.
NFL Legend John Elway Reacts to Brett Favre's Parkinson's Diagnosis
"I just want to let him know that I'm here for him," Elway said. "I know he's going through a tough time, and I just want to let him know that I'm here for him if he needs anything."
Favre played 20 seasons in the NFL, including 16 with the Green Bay Packers. He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and is widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
NFL Legend John Elway Reacts to Brett Favre's Parkinson's Diagnosis
Elway said he was not surprised that Favre was diagnosed with Parkinson's, given his long history of concussions.
"He played the game the way it was supposed to be played," Elway said. "He was a tough guy, and he took a lot of hits. I think that's probably why he's dealing with this now."
Elway said he hoped Favre's diagnosis would raise awareness of the risks of concussions and the importance of early detection.
"I think it's important for people to know that concussions are a serious issue," Elway said. "If you think you've had a concussion, it's important to get checked out by a doctor right away."
Favre's diagnosis has also sparked a debate about the long-term effects of tackle football. Some experts believe that the repetitive head trauma that players experience in tackle football can lead to an increased risk of developing brain diseases such as Parkinson's.
Elway said he believed that tackle football was a safe sport, but he acknowledged that there were risks involved.
"I think tackle football is a great sport," Elway said. "But I think it's important for parents to be aware of the risks and to make sure that their kids are playing in a safe environment."
Elway said he hoped that Favre's diagnosis would not discourage people from playing tackle football.
"I think tackle football is a great game," Elway said. "I just think it's important to be aware of the risks and to make sure that you're playing in a safe environment."
