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The NFL's concussion problem beyond CTE
Feb 24, 2025
Will Hobson, an investigative sports reporter at The Washington Post, dives into the NFL’s controversial concussion settlement. The conversation reveals how racial dynamics impact the payout process for former players. Hobson discusses the alarming connections between brain diseases and football, particularly highlighting CTE. The podcast also addresses the unsettling practice of race norming in cognitive assessments, revealing its disproportionate effects on African-American players seeking compensation. It's a deep look into the NFL's challenges and the ramifications for those involved.
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Quick takeaways
- The NFL's concussion crisis extends beyond CTE, revealing a wide array of brain diseases affecting former players due to prolonged exposure.
- Racial disparities in the NFL's settlement process have led to unjust outcomes for Black players seeking compensation for brain injuries.
Deep dives
The Physical Toll of Football
Playing football entails significant physical risks that extend beyond professional athletes, affecting young players as well. Recent research highlights the dangers of concussions and brain diseases, revealing a decline in youth participation in the sport among various demographics, particularly among Black and white children. Interestingly, Latino children are increasingly taking up the game, creating a demographic shift within youth football. These changes prompt questions about the future makeup of the NFL, historically dominated by Black players, as concerns for player safety become a greater consideration for families.
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