New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo apologized for comments during a recent interview in which he downplayed CTE.
During an appearance on the "Bring the Juice" podcast, New York Giants RB Cam Skattebo said CTE wasn't real.
As expected, Skattebo received a lot of backlash for his comments. The talented Giants star apologized for his statement on social media.
"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," Skattebo wrote on X. "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 !!!"
According to ESPN, medical studies in recent years have warned of the dangers the degenerative brain disease CTE can have on athletes. A study by the Boston University CTE Center in 2023 showed that more than 40% of youth, high school and college athletes -- primarily football players -- who were exposed to repetitive head impacts from contact sports and died before age 30 were diagnosed with CTE.
Skattebo's comments appeared to be a poor attempt at humor, according to his mother, Becky.
She wrote on X: "If only people knew how many times cam had to 'run and get mom's inhaler, ' they'd realize the sarcasm...you'll never make everyone happy and you'll never say all the right things and people are bound to spin something sooner or later in a direction it was never intended to go."
Skattebo appeared in eight games for the Giants last season before suffering a dislocated ankle against the Philadelphia Eagles. He finished his rookie campaign with 410 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns.
Skattebo will be coached by John Harbaugh next season. Harbaugh is considered one of the best coaches in NFL history. He went 180-113 in the regular season and 13-11 in the playoffs with the Baltimore Ravens.
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