Study finds at least one in four deceased NFL players had CTE, prompting questions about football’s future
A British Medical Journal analysis of 878 former NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 identified chronic traumatic encephalopathy in 215 brains, indicating a prevalence of at least one in four and a 24.5% rate in the sample. The study noted that many damaging head impacts occurred before players reached the professional league, during youth, high‑school and collegiate competition. The NFL reiterated its safety initiatives and the NFL Players Association sent an email to active and former players, spouses and significant others outlining brain‑health resources. Durham Public Schools reported using Guardian Caps and on‑site licensed professionals to assess players for head injuries, and high‑school football enrollment has dropped below one million for the first time since the early 2000s.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 18h later
- Left-leaning coverage is the most divided on this story
Why it matters
The findings highlight a significant brain‑health risk for football participants and could influence participation rates and safety practices at all levels of the sport.
How this story developed
- Aug 24 Study estimates at least one quarter of deceased former NFL players had CTE
- Aug 26 The NFL Players Association emailed all active and former players about brain health after the study’s release.
- Aug 27 High‑school football enrollment fell below one million for the first time since the early 2000s.
