New study shows CTE found in 25% of NFL players who died
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 12:28 AM
Last updated Sep 24, 2026

A study recently posted by ESPN reveals that 25% of NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 had Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). This degenerative brain disease is typically diagnosed posthumously. Dr. Kristopher Hooten, Medical Director at University Medical Center, discussed the implications of these findings, emphasizing the importance of understanding CTE's effects on former players. The ongoing discussions around player safety and health continue to highlight the long-term risks associated with football.
- •25% of deceased NFL players had CTE between 2016 and 2021.
- •CTE is diagnosed only after death.
- •Dr. Kristopher Hooten spoke on the implications of CTE.
- •The study was featured in ESPN's coverage.
- •Discussions on player safety and health risks are ongoing.
- 12:28 AMYahoo Sports — NFL study reveals CTE in 25% of players who died
"EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — In a new study posted by ESPN, at least one in four NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021, had degenerative brain disease known as CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). University Medical Center’s Medical Director of Neurosurgical Quality, Dr. Kristopher Hooten, joins KTSM 9 News Anchor Andy Morgan to talk […]
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