The New York Giants are facing potential fallout from running back Cam Skattebo’s recent controversial statements about serious health conditions like CTE and asthma. As he enters his second season in the NFL, Skattebo expressed dubious beliefs regarding chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) during an interview on the “Bring The Juice” podcast.
When asked if he believed CTE, a degenerative brain disease caused by repeated head injuries, was a real issue, Skattebo dismissed it outright. “No, it’s an excuse,” he stated, indicating a lack of credibility for the condition.
Skattebo also took aim at asthma, claiming it, too, is a fake medical condition. He suggested that simply “literally breathing air” serves as a remedy to prevent lung issues.
The American Lung Association provides well-documented causative factors for asthma, including family history, allergies, occupational exposure, viral respiratory infections, smoking, air pollution, and obesity, all of which can lead to severe complications.
A recent study from Boston University revealed that 92% of former NFL players analyzed post-mortem had confirmed cases of CTE, reinforcing the significant risk associated with contact sports. For the first time in 2016, the NFL acknowledged an explicit connection between football and chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
In a statement, The Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed findings of CTE in many former athletes. “Following a thorough assessment and extensive analysis by our neuropathology experts, OCME has found unambiguous diagnostic evidence of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, also known as CTE,” it reported, indicating classification consistent with low-stage CTE.
Given the gravity of these comments, repercussions for Skattebo may be on the horizon. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has prioritized reducing injuries for over a decade, and the league has implemented measures aimed at player safety. Since 2025, the NFL has reported a substantial decrease in concussion injuries, attributed in part to the introduction of new rules and protective equipment like guardian caps that mitigate impact.
Previously plagued by injury, Skattebo concluded his rookie season with a dislocated ankle in October. The No. 105 overall pick out of Arizona State finished his initial campaign with 410 rushing yards and five touchdowns, plus 24 receptions resulting in 207 yards and two more scores across his first eight NFL games.
As of now, neither the Giants nor the NFL has provided a statement regarding Skattebo’s remarks.
