New York Giants rookie running back Cam Skattebo has issued a public apology following controversial statements he made on a podcast, where he dismissed chronic traumatic encephalopathy and asthma as illegitimate medical conditions.
The 24-year-old player took to social media Saturday to address the backlash from his appearance on the “Bring the Juice” podcast.
“I recently did an interview and had a lapse in judgment, which resulted in me making a tasteless joke about CTE and asthma. It was never my intention to downplay the seriousness of head injuries or asthma,” Skattebo posted on X. “I sincerely apologize to anyone that was offended by my remarks, and I assure you that I’ll be more mindful and respectful going forward. Much love !!!”
During the podcast interview, when asked whether he believed CTE was legitimate, Skattebo responded dismissively.
“No, it’s an excuse,” Skattebo said, shaking his head.
The host then questioned whether asthma should also be considered an “excuse.”
“No, that’s a good take,” he said. “Yes, asthma’s fake too.”
Research from Boston University’s CTE Center reveals the severity of the brain condition Skattebo dismissed. In early 2023, the center reported examining brain tissue from 376 former NFL players and finding CTE in 345 cases. The degenerative brain condition results from repeated head trauma and can only be confirmed after death. Notable former players diagnosed with CTE include Pro Football Hall of Famer Junior Seau and ex-New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez.
Regarding asthma, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that over 28 million Americans – approximately one in twelve people – live with the respiratory condition.
Skattebo’s mother came to her son’s defense, suggesting his remarks were meant as sarcasm rather than serious commentary.
“If only people knew how many times cam had to ‘run and get mom’s inhaler’ they’d realize the sarcasm…you’ll never make everyone happy and you’ll never say all the right things and people are bound to spin something sooner or later in a direction it was never intended to go,” Becky Skattebo wrote on social media.
The controversy prompted a response from Garrett Webster, who identified himself as the son of legendary Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster, offering guidance to the young player.
“Mr Skattebo, my father was Mike Webster, you might not know him but he suffered from CTE,” Webster posted. “I’m glad that you recognize your words were unacceptable. Please understand CTE has destroyed the lives of many former players and their families. Be better in the future. Rooting 4 u”
Mike Webster anchored the center position for four Super Bowl championship Steelers teams and earned Hall of Fame induction in 1997. He passed away in 2002 at the age of 50.
The Giants selected Skattebo in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. During his rookie season, he appeared in eight games with five starts, accumulating 410 rushing yards and five touchdowns, plus 207 receiving yards and two touchdown catches before suffering a season-ending ankle injury.
