New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo posted an apology on social media on Saturday, March 21, 2026, after comments he made on a podcast dismissing CTE and asthma as real medical conditions went viral.
During a recent appearance on the "Bring the Juice" podcast hosted by Frank Dalena, Skattebo was asked whether he believed CTE was real. "No," he replied. "It's an excuse." He expressed similar views on asthma, agreeing with the host's characterization and saying people with the condition should "just literally breathe air."
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease linked to repeated head trauma. A 2023 study by Boston University found CTE in the brains of 345 of 376 former NFL players studied — approximately 91.7 percent. The NFL has publicly acknowledged a link between football and CTE. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition affecting approximately 28 million Americans, or roughly one in 12 people.
After the podcast clip circulated widely on social media, Skattebo issued an apology via Instagram and X. "I recently did an interview and had a lapse in judgment, which resulted in me making a tasteless joke about CTE and asthma," Skattebo wrote. "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."
Skattebo is entering his second NFL season after a promising rookie campaign in which he rushed for 410 yards and five touchdowns through eight games before suffering a season-ending ankle injury. He was selected 105th overall out of Arizona State in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Giants and the NFL had not commented on the remarks as of publication.
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