While testifying his alleged involvement in a massive welfare fraud scandal in Mississippi, former NFL quarterback and Hall of Famer Brett Favre dropped a shocking admission in front of congress today.
The legendary quarterback says he has Parkinson’s disease.
During his testimony, Favre made the shocking announcement that stunned the crowd, saying:
“Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others. I’m sure you’ll understand, while it’s too late for me because I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, this is also a cause dear to my heart.”
Former #Packers QB Brett Favre announced that he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's disease while testifying at a House hearing on welfare reform.pic.twitter.com/r7veggL1Za
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 24, 2024
Favre has been on Capitol Hill due to being linked to the Mississippi welfare scandal back in 2020.
Favre has not been criminally charged, but the state of Mississippi is suing 38 people or companies in an attempt to recoup $24 million of $77 million in federal welfare money.
Favre, who helped raise money for a University of Southern Mississippi athletic facility, has denied knowing that a $5 million grant came from a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families welfare fund through the Mississippi Community Education Center.
However, in light of the federal investigation, it’s Favre’s health that has recently come into the spotlight.
Favre recently said he believes he suffered “thousands” of concussions during his playing career. Back in 2021, he encouraged parents to keep their children away from tackle football until the age of 14.
Farve also told sport media outlet OutKick last month that he suffered a head injury on his final play in the NFL.
And during an appearance on “The Bubba Army” radio show in 2022, Favre discussed how concussions were less policed when he was at the peak of his career.
“Concussions happen all the time. You get tackled, and your head hits the turf, you see flashes of light or ringing in your ears, but you’re able to play — that’s a concussion,” he explained.
Favre played 16 of his 20 NFL seasons with the Green Bay Packers. Originally drafted by the Atlanta Falcons, Favre went on to play with both the Jets and Vikings after his time in Green Bay.
He threw for 71,838 yards and 508 touchdowns, both of which rank fourth all-time. His 336 interceptions are also the most in NFL history.