Jason Kelce says he may be suffering from CTE in wake of NFL career

Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has revealed his belief that he is highly susceptible to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) due to his NFL career.

Although Kelce cannot be definitively diagnosed with CTE while alive, he acknowledges the risk factors present from his professional football experience, as The Sun reports.

Kelce made this disclosure last year, highlighting his concerns on social media during a heated discussion about horse racing. During the conversation, he drew an analogy to the famous racehorse Secretariat using steroids, which led to engagement with former writer Jay Privman.

CTE increasingly seen in former NFL players

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE, is a progressive brain condition that often affects athletes involved in high-contact sports such as football. The condition is linked to repeated head trauma, which is common among NFL players, especially those in positions prone to physical collisions, like offensive linemen.

Despite sharing his worries, Kelce emphasized that a diagnostic process for CTE does not presently exist for living patients. “I mean, I can […] guarantee that I have CTE, all the research would suggest I have some degree of it,” he expressed. This sentiment is shared by many, considering the known prevalence of the disease among well-known athletes.

Kelce’s career was remarkably robust, missing only his sophomore season in 2012. His resilience on the field, having played 16 games or more in almost every season, underscores, he believes, his vulnerability to the degenerative disease.

Football community weighs in on risks

The conversation around CTE is not new, and Kelce’s revelation has stirred responses from fans and former players alike. Discussions have emerged, referencing the impact of high-contact positions like those of an offensive lineman. Many fans echoed concerns that nearly all NFL players could contend with CTE to some extent.

One fan remarked, “Literally every player in the league has some level of CTE.” This perspective underscores the awareness and caution surrounding the disease, as more athletes recognize the risks associated with their sports.

Speculation around the game’s regulations, like the contentious discussion over the “tush push” play, also arises in the context of player safety. Enthusiasts have suggested that changes to the game could mitigate some risks, though complex factors are involved in such considerations.

Kelce reflects on dangers

Beyond the public discourse, Kelce’s individual reflections delve into a poignant understanding of his reality. He acknowledged, “I think it is entirely reasonable to assume I have some degree of that pathology.” These candid admissions resonate with the larger narrative of athlete health in contact sports.

His stance is not an isolated view but a reflection of broader awareness in the sports community about the long-term effects of football. Moreover, it highlights the need for ongoing research and innovation in diagnosis and prevention.

While the current lack of tests for living individuals presents a challenge, ongoing studies continue to shed light on the prevalence of CTE among athletes and push for reforms in sports safety standards.

Next phase unclear

As discussions continue, Jason Kelce’s openness brings renewed attention to the potential health ramifications faced by NFL players. While definitive solutions may be elusive at present, the persistence of these conversations contributes to burgeoning efforts for improved player safety.

With voices like Kelce’s at the forefront, a crucial dialogue persists. It highlights the need not only for athlete awareness but also for evolving research to better understand and manage the disease.