New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo is facing significant backlash after making comments widely perceived as dismissive and inaccurate regarding Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and asthma during an appearance on the Bring the Juice podcast with Frank Dalena. The 24-year-old has since issued a public apology, acknowledging a lapse in judgment.
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
During the podcast interview, Skattebo reportedly stated that CTE was “an excuse,” and went on to suggest that asthma was not a legitimate condition, implying it was a matter of simply “breathe[ing] air.” These comments quickly circulated online, drawing criticism from medical professionals, athletes, and advocacy groups. CTE, a progressive degenerative brain disease linked to repetitive head impacts, is a growing concern in contact sports like football, and has been the subject of extensive research.
The remarks are particularly sensitive given the ongoing conversation surrounding player safety in the NFL and the long-term health consequences of playing football. The NFL has implemented numerous rule changes and equipment upgrades in recent years aimed at reducing head injuries, but the issue remains a central focus for players, teams, and the league itself.
Skattebo Issues Apology
Responding to the widespread criticism, Skattebo took to X (formerly Twitter) to apologize for his remarks. “I recently did an interview and had a lapse in judgment, which resulted in me making a tasteless joke about CTE and asthma,” he wrote in a post on March 21, 2026. “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.”
While the apology was swift, it hasn’t entirely quelled the controversy, raising broader questions about the responsibility of athletes in the public sphere and the importance of informed commentary on sensitive health issues. The incident highlights the potential for misinformation to spread quickly, particularly through social media and podcast platforms.
Understanding CTE and Asthma: The Medical Realities
The science surrounding CTE has advanced considerably in recent years. Research conducted by the Boston University research center, as reported by Sports Illustrated, has demonstrated that a significant number of athletes with a history of repetitive head trauma exhibit signs of the disease after their deaths. According to BU, CTE is a “progressive degenerative disease of the brain” and a poignant subject in football due to the frequency of head injuries.
A 2023 study by Boston University found CTE in the brains of 345 out of 376 former NFL players studied. This research underscores the serious and lasting impact of head injuries in the sport.
The World Health Organization recognizes asthma as a chronic respiratory disease affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. It can cause significant complications and requires ongoing management. Dismissing asthma as “fake,” as Skattebo reportedly did, is not only inaccurate but also insensitive to those living with the condition.
The issue of CTE has been brought to the forefront by the experiences of former NFL players like Junior Seau, Dave Duerson, and Conrad Dobler, whose post-mortem diagnoses contributed to increased awareness of the long-term consequences of head trauma. These cases have prompted the league to take further steps to improve player safety.
Beyond Skattebo: A Larger Conversation
The controversy surrounding Cam Skattebo’s comments extends beyond a single athlete’s misstep. It underscores a fundamental issue: the spread of misinformation regarding public health topics. Athletes, due to their high profile, wield considerable influence, particularly among younger audiences. Their statements carry weight and can shape public perception.
While Skattebo’s apology has been acknowledged by some, the debate continues regarding the demand for improved education and awareness of medical realities within the sports world. It’s a reminder that public statements, especially on health-related matters, are never without consequence.
Skattebo’s mother, Becky Skattebo, also weighed in on the situation, posting on X defending her son’s comments and referencing her own experiences with asthma, and inhalers. Her post, as reported by The Big Lead, suggested that Skattebo’s remarks were intended as sarcasm and were misinterpreted.
What’s Next for Cam Skattebo and the Giants?
The New York Giants have not yet issued a formal statement regarding Skattebo’s comments. It remains to be seen whether the team will take any disciplinary action. Skattebo is expected to participate in the Giants’ upcoming offseason training program, which is scheduled to begin on April 15, 2026. The team will be looking for Skattebo to contribute to their running back rotation in the 2026-2027 season.
The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of responsible communication and the need for athletes to be mindful of the impact of their words. It also highlights the ongoing need for education and awareness regarding CTE and other health issues affecting athletes.
The Giants open their 2026-2027 season on September 12th against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The game is scheduled for 8:20 PM EDT (00:20 UTC September 13th).
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