Former Philadelphia Eagles star Jason Kelce made a surprising revelation on social media this week, acknowledging that he may have Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). The admission came after a Twitter user commented on one of Kelce’s posts, suggesting that only someone with CTE would make such unsubstantiated claims.

The interaction began when Kelce made a bold statement about the 1973 Triple Crown winner, Secretariat, alleging that the horse was “juiced to the gills” with steroids. He further emphasized his stance in a lengthy tweet, pointing out the lack of testing in the past and historical evidence of performance-enhancing drugs being used in the 1960s

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In response to Kelce’s comments, a Twitter user implied that only individuals suffering from CTE would make such claims without factual evidence. Kelce surprisingly did not refute the suggestion and instead acknowledged the possibility of having CTE.

He responded: “I mean I can virtually guarantee that I have CTE, all the research would suggest I have some degree of it. I think it is entirely reasonable to assume I have some degree of that pathology.”

This admission is significant, considering Kelce’s successful 13-year career in the NFL. It sheds light on the issue of CTE within the league, a topic that has been a cause for concern and controversy. The NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell have faced criticism for allegedly downplaying the long-term effects of head injuries on football players.

CTE has been a concern for decades in the NFL

Kelce’s public acknowledgment of a potential CTE diagnosis raises awareness about the prevalence of this condition among former NFL players. It also puts a spotlight on the league’s responsibility to address and support players dealing with the consequences of head trauma.

In light of the situation, Kelce has since expressed regret for his original tweet about Secretariat, indicating a sense of accountability for his words.

The revelation also prompts a closer look at CTE and its impact on athletes. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is a degenerative brain disease associated with repeated head injuries, particularly in contact sports like football. It has been linked to symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and mood changes, posing serious long-term health risks for affected individuals.

Kelce’s admission serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing player safety and well-being in professional sports, particularly in a high-impact sport like football. His openness about the potential presence of CTE in his own life adds a personal dimension to the ongoing conversation about head injuries and their lasting effects in the NFL.