Marshall Faulk, one of the most accomplished running backs in NFL history, is currently serving as the head football coach at Southern University, where he is leading the Jaguars through his first season at the helm.
Faulk announced his diagnosis during an appearance on a medical podcast. He said he initially noticed something was awry when he experienced issues with his hand while golfing.
The Hall of Famer said that he was focusing on upping his activity level and managing his symptoms.
The diagnosis marks a significant personal development for a football figure whose impact spans college football, the NFL and now the HBCU coaching ranks.
Marshall Faulk’s New Chapter at Southern University
Southern University announced Faulk as its 22nd head football coach on December 1, 2025, bringing a legendary NFL career and years of football experience to Baton Rouge.
Before taking the Southern job, Faulk served as the running backs coach at the University of Colorado under head coach Deion Sanders. His return to the college game represented a new chapter for a former superstar transitioning from the playing field and broadcasting booth to leading a program of his own.
Faulk’s appointment generated significant attention across HBCU football, with the Pro Football Hall of Famer bringing name recognition and NFL experience to the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
A Legendary Career With the St. Louis Rams
For football fans in St. Louis, Faulk will always be remembered as one of the defining stars of the Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf” era.
After entering the NFL as the No. 2 overall pick in the 1994 NFL Draft, Faulk began his professional career with the Indianapolis Colts before joining the St. Louis Rams in 1999.
His arrival helped power one of the most explosive offenses in NFL history. Faulk became a central figure in the Rams’ Super Bowl XXXIV championship season and helped the franchise reach another Super Bowl in the 2001 season.
His accomplishments included:
- 2000 NFL Most Valuable Player
- Super Bowl XXXIV champion
- Seven-time Pro Bowl selection
- 1994 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
- Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee in 2011
Faulk finished his NFL career with 12,279 rushing yards, 6,875 receiving yards and 136 total touchdowns. His ability to dominate as both a runner and receiver made him one of the most versatile offensive players of his generation.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Symptoms and disease progression vary from person to person, and treatment can help people manage symptoms.
Faulk’s individual medical circumstances, treatment plans and prognosis should not be assumed without further information from him or his representatives.
The Football Community Awaits Further Updates
Faulk’s diagnosis adds a deeply personal dimension to his first season leading Southern University. As a celebrated former player now responsible for developing young athletes, he occupies an important place in both the NFL community and HBCU football.
Additional information about his health, any potential impact on his coaching responsibilities and his response to the diagnosis should be reported as it becomes available through reliable sources.
Sneaker Shop Talk will continue to follow this developing story.
Our thoughts are with Marshall Faulk and his family as they navigate this health challenge.
