From INSIDE PHILANTHROPY, By Connie Matthiessen, October 13, 2026
National Football League players enjoy celebrity status, as well as stratospheric salaries and lucrative ad sponsorships. They are also nearly four times more likely to develop ALS than the general population.
A long list of former NFL players have been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the fatal motor neuron condition also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Arthur M. Blank wants to know why — and what can be done about it.
Blank is known not only for cofounding The Home Depot and for his expansive giving, but also as an NFL team owner: He purchased the Atlanta Falcons franchise in 2002. His philanthropy, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, recently committed $4.4 million in grants to three programs that advance ALS research, expand access to clinical trials, and aim to increase understanding of the disease.
To decide how to make the most impact and channel the foundation’s resources, the Blank Foundation turned to two former NFL players who have the disease, Steve Gleason and Tim Green. Both men have become advocates for ALS patients and for research into the disease.
“I’ve always been inspired by Steve Gleason and Tim Green and the courage and purpose they have demonstrated in the face of a devastating disease,” Arthur Blank said in a written statement. “…Together, we are optimistic that we are moving closer to life-changing treatments, and I’m honored to support this critical mission.”
