A BMJ study found at least 1 in 4 former NFL players in its sample died with CTE, a neurodegenerative disease tied to repeated head injuries.
The research examined ex-NFL players who died from 2016 to 2021, adding fresh evidence to longstanding concerns about football-related brain trauma.
Lead author researchers said the true prevalence is likely higher, suggesting the study may understate CTE's reach among former players.
The findings land as the new NFL season begins, renewing scrutiny of the risks the sport poses to players and the implications for fans and the league.