New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo is facing backlash after dismissing both chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and asthma as “fake” during a recent podcast appearance.
Speaking on the Bring the Juice podcast, the 24-year-old was asked whether he believes CTE – a degenerative brain condition linked to repeated head trauma – is real. Skattebo called it an “excuse”, agreeing with the host before making a similar claim about asthma.
“Yeah, asthma’s fake too,” Skattebo said, adding at one point that people should “just breathe air”.
The comments have drawn criticism given the scientific consensus around both conditions.
CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, is a progressive neurological disease associated with repeated blows to the head. It is marked by a buildup of abnormal tau protein in the brain, which can damage blood vessels and disrupt functions tied to memory, mood and impulse control. Symptoms can include cognitive decline, behavioral changes and, in advanced cases, dementia. The condition can only be definitively diagnosed posthumously.
It has been identified in numerous former football players after their deaths, including Junior Seau and Aaron Hernandez. A 2023 Boston University study found evidence of CTE in roughly 92% of former NFL players whose brains were examined, while the league finally acknowledged a link between football and the condition in 2016.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of Americans and can be life-threatening in severe cases.
Skattebo, a fourth-round pick out of Arizona State in the 2025 NFL draft, emerged as a key contributor for the Giants as a rookie before his season ended early due to an ankle injury. He finished with 410 rushing yards and five touchdowns in eight games.
The Giants have not publicly commented on his remarks.