Commanders’ Josh Hines-Allen Opens Up About Son’s Cancer Battle, Launches Powerful Season-Long Charity Campaign to Support Pediatric Families

In a heartfelt and courageous revelation that transcends the gridiron, Washington Commanders linebacker Josh Hines-Allen has opened up about a deeply personal and emotional journey—his young son’s battle with cancer. Known for his toughness and consistency on the field, Hines-Allen showed an entirely different kind of strength when he shared the news publicly for the first time this week.

Speaking through tears and determination, Hines-Allen detailed how his son, Noah, was diagnosed with leukemia earlier this year. The diagnosis changed everything for the Hines-Allen family. Now, the veteran linebacker is using his NFL platform to bring awareness, raise funds, and offer hope to other families facing similar hardships through a season-long charitable initiative.

A Private Battle Brought to Light

Hines-Allen has long been recognized as a quiet leader in Washington’s locker room, someone who lets his play and professionalism speak volumes. But when his son was diagnosed, the personal became impossible to separate from the professional.

“Noah is the strongest person I’ve ever met,” Hines-Allen said in a press conference alongside head coach Dan Quinn. “I’ve played through injuries, I’ve faced adversity on the field, but nothing compares to watching your child go through chemotherapy.”

The linebacker said he and his wife, Danielle, initially kept the diagnosis private to focus entirely on their son’s treatment. But as Noah’s journey continued, they felt compelled to speak out—not for sympathy, but to empower others. “We realized there are so many families out there dealing with this who don’t have a voice. We want to be that voice.”

Introducing the “Tackle Cancer with Josh” Campaign

In partnership with the Washington Commanders Foundation and Children’s National Hospital, Hines-Allen has launched a campaign titled “Tackle Cancer with Josh”. The initiative will raise funds throughout the 2025 NFL season through fan donations, merchandise sales, and pledges tied to Hines-Allen’s on-field performance.

Each tackle Hines-Allen records during the season will translate into a $1,000 donation to pediatric cancer research and family support services. The linebacker has also pledged to personally match all donations made by fans during the first month of the campaign.

“I can’t cure cancer,” he said. “But I can hit hard, I can play hard, and I can make every single tackle count for something greater.”

Fans can also purchase exclusive “Tackle Cancer” merchandise, with proceeds going to organizations that assist families with housing, transportation, meals, and emotional support while undergoing pediatric cancer treatment.

Emotional Support from the NFL Community

Following the announcement, messages of support poured in from across the NFL community. Teammates like Jonathan Allen and Terry McLaurin wore special wristbands during training camp emblazoned with “Noah Strong,” a phrase now trending among Commanders fans online.

“Josh is one of the most selfless guys I know,” McLaurin said. “He’s always been a warrior for this team, and now he’s showing he’s a warrior for his family too. We’re all behind him.”

Washington head coach Dan Quinn echoed that sentiment, calling Hines-Allen’s strength and leadership “nothing short of inspiring.”

“He’s playing with a purpose that’s bigger than football,” Quinn said. “And I think everyone in this locker room feels that.”

Noah’s Strength Inspires a Locker Room

Players and coaches alike have been moved by the resilience of 6-year-old Noah, who has visited practice on several occasions. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, Noah has become a fixture around the facility, often seen giving fist bumps to players or being carried on his father’s shoulders.

“He’s got the heart of a lion,” said defensive lineman Daron Payne. “Every time I see him, it reminds me what real courage looks like.”

To honor Noah, the Commanders plan to designate one home game during the 2025 season as “Noah Strong Day,” featuring special uniforms, fan giveaways, and a pregame ceremony recognizing pediatric cancer survivors.

A Deeper Mission: Advocacy and Awareness

Beyond the fundraising aspect, Hines-Allen emphasized the campaign’s secondary goal: raising awareness about the emotional and financial toll childhood cancer takes on families.

He shared the story of one family he met in the oncology ward who had to choose between paying for rent or treatment. That family, he said, inspired him to push for systemic change and better healthcare resources.

“It shouldn’t be that way,” he said. “No parent should have to make that kind of choice. If my platform can shine a light on that, then I’m doing my job beyond football.”

The linebacker has already begun talks with lawmakers and non-profits to advocate for expanded healthcare coverage for families with critically ill children.

Season Outlook with a Purpose

As Hines-Allen enters his eighth NFL season, his role with the Commanders becomes even more important. The linebacker is projected to start and anchor a defense that looks to bounce back in 2025. But football has taken on a new meaning.

“Every snap, every rep, it’s for Noah now,” he said. “I used to play for stats, for wins. Now I play for my son.”

With training camp underway, Hines-Allen has looked as locked in as ever. Teammates say he’s playing with an unmatched focus and determination, driven by the weight—and inspiration—of his off-field battle.

A Community Responds

The Washington, D.C. community has already begun rallying behind Hines-Allen. Local businesses are joining the “Tackle Cancer with Josh” campaign by pledging donations for every Commanders win. Children’s National Hospital will host a “Noah Strong 5K” during the team’s bye week in October.

And fans have started a viral social media trend, posting photos in Commanders gear with the hashtag #NoahStrong, accompanied by messages of love and encouragement for the family.

“It’s overwhelming in the best way,” Hines-Allen said. “We feel the love, and we know we’re not alone.”

Josh Hines-Allen’s story is a reminder that athletes are more than just performers on a field—they’re fathers, husbands, and warriors for causes that matter. His openness in sharing his son’s battle, and his drive to turn that pain into purpose, has already inspired a fanbase and given hope to countless families.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Commanders fans will be watching No. 52 not just for tackles, but for every small victory that brings the Hines-Allen family closer to healing—and every act of kindness that reminds us all of the power of compassion and community.

“Football is a game,” Hines-Allen said. “But this… this is life. And we’re going to fight like hell to win.”