Giants RB Cam Skattebo apologizes after saying CTE and asthma are fake

Cam Skattebo, a running back for the New York Giants, is apologizing after resurfaced comments in a recent podcast where he claimed that chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and asthma are “fake.” He described the remarks as a lapse in judgment and a tasteless joke that was never meant to minimize the seriousness of head injuries or asthma. In a statement posted to X, he said the comments were not intended to offend and pledged to be more mindful and respectful in the future.

CTE is a degenerative brain condition associated with repeated head trauma and can lead to mood changes, depression, memory loss, and other symptoms. It can only be diagnosed after death, and a 2017 study found CTE in 110 of 111 former football players studied, underscoring the issue’s gravity for players at all levels of the sport. The National Football League acknowledged a link between football and CTE in 2016. Asthma, which affects hundreds of millions worldwide, can be severe and even fatal in extreme cases.

Skattebo’s mother, Becky Skattebo, weighed in on the controversy, explaining through a social post that her son’s remarks were not serious and highlighted how she has asthma herself. She added that people should understand the context and that sarcasm can be easily misunderstood online. The chaos surrounding the comments prompted the wide backlash, but Skattebo’s mea culpa aimed to reset the conversation and acknowledge the impact of his words.

This episode serves as a reminder that comments on sensitive health topics can resonate far beyond the moment of a podcast. Skattebo’s apology indicates an effort to take responsibility and move forward with greater sensitivity, especially as conversations about safety and health in football continue to dominate sports discussions.

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