New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo made headlines after comments on the podcast “Bring the Juice,” hosted by Frank Dalena, about chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and asthma.
CTE is a closely examined health issue in professional football, as ongoing research continues to link the condition to repeated head impacts and long-term neurological decline. While it cannot yet be diagnosed in living individuals, its presence in former players has kept the conversation around safety and awareness in focus across the league.
Cam Skattebo Apologizes for Controversial Comments on CTE and Asthma
When asked whether chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is real, Skattebo responded immediately: “No.” He added that he considered it “an excuse,” a remark that drew significant attention.
The conversation then shifted to asthma. Dalena referenced children struggling to breathe during school activities, and Skattebo replied, “Just breathe air.” The offhand remark, delivered in a casual tone, was widely criticized.
RELATED: Cam Skattebo Calls CTE ‘An Excuse’ in Direct Challenge to Medical Consensus
Skattebo later addressed the backlash and apologized. In a statement on X, he wrote, “I recently did an interview and had a lapse in judgment, which resulted in me making a tasteless joke about CTE and asthma.
“It was never my intention to downplay the seriousness of head injuries or asthma. I sincerely apologize to anyone that was offended by my remarks, and I assure you that I’ll be more mindful and respectful going forward. Much love !!!”
I recently did an interview and had a lapse in judgment, which resulted in me making a tasteless joke about CTE and asthma. It was never my intention to downplay the seriousness of head injuries or asthma. I sincerely apologize to anyone that was offended by my remarks, and I…
— cameron skattebo (@camskattebo5) March 21, 2026
The NFL has spent years attempting to recalibrate its approach to player safety. Concussion protocols have been strengthened, rules have been adjusted, and research into long-term brain health has become a priority.
The league continues to balance the appeal of the game with the risks it poses, underscoring the seriousness of comments like Skattebo’s, even when intended as humor.
Skattebo has dealt with health issues of his own. His 2025 season ended in Week 8 after he suffered a severe ankle dislocation, a fibula fracture, and a deltoid ligament rupture during a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
He is currently undergoing recovery, with his rookie campaign concluding at 101 rushes for 410 yards and 5 touchdowns.
