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3w ago

BMJ Study Estimates One in Four Former NFL Players Had CTE

Researchers applied conservative bounds to correct for brain‑donor bias and said the results strengthen calls to reduce early tackle exposure and to develop tests that diagnose CTE in life.

An adult can weigh the potential reward against the potential consequences. A 12-year-old cannot.
San Francisco 49ers great Randy Cross, No. 61, waits in the huddle during the NFC Championship game against the Chicago Bears at Candlestick Park on Jan. 6, 1985. Cross, who later watched his own son play football, is among those raising concerns about the risks of starting tackle football young.
A new study of former NFL players is raising fresh questions about the long-term risks of starting tackle football at a young age.
(Credit: © Anna Shalamova | Dreamstime.com)

Overview

  • A peer‑reviewed BMJ analysis found a conservative prevalence of about 24.5% for chronic traumatic encephalopathy among former NFL players who died in the study window, while examined donated brains showed very high rates of CTE.
  • The authors used bounding methods to handle strong selection bias from brain banks, which means the high percentage among donated brains cannot be directly generalized to all players.
  • Researchers and neurologists reported a clear link between earlier starting age, longer cumulative play and higher CTE risk, with one author saying each additional two years of play substantially raises risk.
  • The study has sharpened parental concern and coincided with reported drops or pauses in some youth and junior‑college programs as experts urge delaying tackle until older ages or replacing early years with flag football.
  • Commentators and clinicians recommend policy steps such as limiting contact in practices, independent medical staffing, size‑matching younger players, and nationwide investment in prospective studies and in‑life diagnostics.