The Tennessee Titans have a rich tradition of honoring their all-time greats, with eight uniform numbers already retired. But after Chris Johnson's ALS diagnosis, a groundswell of support is pushing for a ninth.
Fans took to social media Monday to demand that the franchise retire the No. 28 jersey worn by the electric running back during his six-year tenure in Nashville. The last time the Titans retired a number was in 2019, when they enshrined Eddie George's No. 27 and the late Steve McNair's No. 9 in a dual ceremony. Other retired numbers include Warren Moon (1), Earl Campbell (34), Jim Norton (43), Mike Munchak (63), Elvin Bethea (65), and Bruce Matthews (74).
'Retire 28' Movement Heats Up
The call to action is spreading fast across X (formerly Twitter), with fans passionately arguing that Johnson's contributions deserve a permanent spot in the rafters. "Titans need to retire 28," one user declared. Another wrote, "The Titans should look to retire #28. Do it week 1. Hang his name in the rafters." A third added, "Titans need to add CJ2K to the Ring of Honor and retire #28."
The sentiment is echoed by many who recall Johnson's historic 2009 season, when he became just the sixth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards. One fan shared a post from that campaign, urging, "Sharing this again, in honor of one of the best offensive seasons in NFL history. @Titans, retire number 28."
Perfect Timing for a Tribute
Coincidentally, the Titans are scheduled to open the 2026 season at home against the New York Jets—another team Johnson played for during his career. That Week 1 matchup presents a natural stage for the organization to honor him. "Week 1 vs his other former team, give him the entire experience of being permanently etched into the team's history," one fan suggested.
Some supporters feel the move is long overdue. "They needed to retire 28 WELLLLL before this news…" wrote another. The urgency has only intensified following the diagnosis, which has drawn widespread attention and even criticism of how the story has been handled—including Michael Strahan being slammed for a 'grotesque' ALS interview.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Johnson, who turns 40 this year, has been open about his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), revealing that the first symptom was a weak grip. Former 2,000-yard rusher Chris Johnson opens up about his ALS battle, and his courage has only amplified the calls for recognition.
The Titans' ownership has expressed heartbreak over the news. Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk heartbroken by Chris Johnson's ALS diagnosis, and the fan base is now looking to the front office to turn that emotion into action.
Whether the team ultimately retires his number or inducts him into the Ring of Honor, one thing is clear: CJ2K's impact on the franchise and the city is indelible. And with a potential Week 1 spotlight against the Jets, the stage is set for an unforgettable tribute.
