Study: 1 in 4 NFL Players Had CTE
Study shows at least 25% of former NFL players who died had CTE, with potential rates as high as 97%.
The update
A new study published in the British Medical Journal found that at least 25% of NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 had chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The research, led by Dr. Daniel Daneshvar, examined brain samples from 878 players who appeared in at least one NFL game. While the minimum prevalence was 25%, researchers noted the maximum possible rate was around 97%, with the true rate likely somewhere in between.
Why it matters
The findings provide concrete data on how common CTE may be among NFL players, a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma. The study strengthens the connection between football and long-term brain health concerns. With more than 90% of the most advanced CTE cases also showing dementia, the research underscores serious health risks that could impact player safety protocols, compensation discussions, and the future of football at all levels.
What to watch
Will the NFL implement new safety measures in response? How might this affect current players’ decisions about continuing their careers? What impact will this have on youth football participation? The researchers plan to release additional estimates on overall CTE rates in NFL players at the time of death.
Sources
- espn.com — CTE prevalence findings and methodology
- Yahoo Sports — brain sample data and research context