chronic traumatic encephalopathy

CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, is a progressive brain condition caused by repeated head injuries, commonly found in contact sports athletes and military personnel. It leads to dementia-like symptoms and can only be definitively diagnosed post-mortem through autopsy. The condition was first identified in boxers in the 1920s and later linked to NFL players like Mike Webster.

Marshawn Kneeland, a Dallas Cowboys defensive end who died by suicide in 2025, was diagnosed with early-stage chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) after his death. The Boston University CTE Center confirmed the diagnosis, linking it to repeated head trauma. Kneeland's family emphasized the importance of raising awareness about CTE in athletes.