NFLSep 30
NFL Players Split on Whether They Would Want a CTE Test
Research into diagnosing CTE during life raises difficult questions for players about their health, families and futures in football.
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The search for a diagnosis
A test that could diagnose chronic traumatic encephalopathy in living people remains a research goal, but NFL players already have differing views on whether they would want the results. CTE can currently be confirmed only through examination of the brain after death. Researchers believe repeated head impacts, including those that do not cause concussions, contribute to the degenerative disease. Former Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson believes he has CTE after experiencing memory problems, disorientation and difficulty managing his emotions. That belief is not a confirmed diagnosis. At Boston University, neuropsychologist Michael Alosco is working on the Diagnose CTE Research Project. Researchers have followed more than 300 former players, alongside Alzheimer's patients who did not play football, since the project's initial phase began in 2015. There is no firm timeline for a diagnostic test.
Knowing could change the decision to play
Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota would welcome testing, viewing it as a way to improve understanding of football's risks for players at every level. Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker also favors it, citing his responsibility to his family. Others would prefer to wait. Jacksonville Jaguars receiver CJ Williams would likely seek testing after retiring, while Minnesota Vikings safety Joshua Metellus worries that knowing during his career could change how he plays or whether he continues. Indianapolis Colts tight end Mo Alie-Cox is concerned that a diagnosis would change how others treat him, though symptoms could persuade him to pursue testing.
Symptoms need careful evaluation
Diagnostic clarity could also help former players whose symptoms have other causes. Harvard researcher Rachel Grashow emphasizes that treatable conditions can produce cognitive problems overlapping with those associated with CTE. A study published in 2024 found that former players who attributed their general health symptoms to CTE were five times more likely to report suicidal thoughts than those who did not. Distinguishing suspected CTE from other health problems could therefore have important consequences for care.
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