Marshawn Kneeland's CTE diagnosis shows brain damage’s terrible toll
MS NOW • • sports
Key Points:
- The death of Kneeland at a young age may influence some parents' decisions about allowing their children to play football, though the extent of this impact remains uncertain.
- A 2023 ESPN survey of former NFL players revealed that 25% believe tackle football should be banned before high school, reflecting growing concerns about the sport's safety.
- Football participation among high school boys, particularly in Texas, has declined significantly over the past decade, with a 17% drop noted since 2006, surpassing declines in other popular boys’ sports.
- Former players like Chris Edmonds experience lasting cognitive effects from football, highlighting ongoing concerns about brain injuries such as CTE among athletes.
- Despite awareness of risks, many families continue to view football as an acceptable risk, suggesting that participation will likely persist despite recent high-profile tragedies.
