A new study published in the British Medical Journal reveals that at least one in four former National Football League (NFL) players who died between 2016 and 2021 suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma.
Study details and findings
The researchers examined 878 players who appeared in at least one NFL game and died during the six‑year period. Of those, 235 families donated the players’ brains for scientific analysis. The study found that 215 of the 235 donated brains—more than 90%—tested positive for CTE. When the researchers extrapolated these results to the entire group of 878 deceased players, they estimated that at least 25% had the disease.
Lead author Dr. Daniel Daneshvar cautioned that the 25% figure is likely a low estimate. “The true rate is probably somewhere in the middle,” he said, noting that the sample of donated brains may over‑represent cases where families suspected brain injury.
Implications for player safety
CTE can only be diagnosed after death, making brain donation essential for understanding the condition. Daneshvar emphasized that the cumulative force of head impacts, rather than any single concussion, is the strongest predictor of CTE. He argued that reducing contact during practices—especially at the youth, high‑school, and collegiate levels—could significantly lower the lifetime risk of brain injury.
“Nearly 70% of head impacts occur in practice,” Daneshvar explained. “If we limit practice contact to less than once a week across all levels, we can substantially reduce the cumulative head‑impact burden that athletes experience throughout their lives.”
NFL response
The league issued a statement acknowledging the study’s findings and reaffirming its commitment to player safety. “The NFL continuously strives to make the game of football safer, including by implementing strategies to reduce concussions and head impacts,” the statement read. The NFL also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand resources for the physical and mental well‑being of current and former players.
What families and communities can do
Families of former players are encouraged to consider brain donation, which provides critical data for researchers. Community health organizations can also promote awareness of the risks associated with repeated head trauma and support programs that teach safe tackling techniques.
While the study underscores a serious health concern, it also points to actionable steps that leagues, schools, and parents can take to protect athletes. By limiting contact in practice and fostering a culture of safety, the football community can work toward reducing the prevalence of CTE for future generations.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
