New Study Finds 25% of Deceased NFL Players Had CTE Between 2016-2021

A study published by the British Medical Journal found that at least 219 of 878 NFL players who died over a six-year period had CTE.

A new NFL CTE study published Tuesday by the British Medical Journal reveals that at least 25% of players who died between 2016 and 2021 were afflicted with chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The research analyzed a specific cohort of 878 individuals who appeared in at least one professional football game and passed away during that six-year window. While the 25% figure represents the low-end estimate, lead author Dr. Daniel Daneshvar noted that the maximum possible prevalence within the group could be as high as 97%. Researchers determined that the true rate likely exists in the middle of those two figures.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a degenerative brain disease that currently requires a post-mortem diagnosis. Because of this limitation, the study utilized brain samples donated between 2008 and 2021. Within that specific donor pool, 93% of the brains had been diagnosed with the condition. To reach the 25% minimum prevalence rate, scientists narrowed the sample to periods of peak donation while adjusting for demographic data and information listed on death certificates.

Link Between Advanced CTE and Dementia

The research further explored the correlation between brain degeneration and cognitive decline. In cases involving Stage IV CTE—the most advanced form of the disease—more than 90% of the samples were also diagnosed with dementia. Dr. Daneshvar identified the cumulative force of head impacts as the primary predictor for developing the condition. To mitigate these risks, the study suggests eliminating hits during team practices and preventing children from participating in tackle football.

NFL and NFLPA Responses to Findings

The NFL Players Association described the findings as a sobering reminder of the lasting consequences inherent in the sport. In a statement to ESPN, the union called the data a call to action for the entire football ecosystem to improve access to care and develop better treatments. The NFLPA emphasized that supporting players throughout their lives remains a core priority. Meanwhile, the NFL stated it continuously strives to reduce concussions and head impacts through new strategies, asserting a commitment to providing mental and physical well-being resources to the league community.

Player Perspectives on Game Violence

Azeez Al-Shaair, a linebacker for the Texans entering his eighth season, recently addressed the reality of the sport's violent nature. He described the game as the best athletes in the world running at each other at full speed. Al-Shaair noted that while players understand what they sign up for, they must take care of their bodies off the field to maximize their chances of staying healthy. He characterized the risk of brain disease as a reality of the aggressive environment in which they compete.

Looking forward, researchers intend to publish a subsequent study in the coming months. This upcoming report aims to provide an estimated overall rate of CTE for all NFL players at their time of death, expanding on the data provided by the British Medical Journal. Kevin Seifert of ESPN contributed to the reporting of these medical findings.