CTE on Rams players’ minds

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, October 31, 2026

Los Angeles Rams players openly acknowledge the risks of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) linked to repeated head trauma but often choose to focus on playing despite these concerns. As awareness of CTE rises, players balance the benefits of their careers with ongoing worries about long-term brain health and the effectiveness of protective measures.

Players on the Los Angeles Rams roster are increasingly conscious of the risks associated with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma, but many say they attempt to focus on the game rather than the potential long-term consequences.

A recent study published by Boston University examined medical records and brain tissue from more than 2,000 former NFL players who had died, estimating that nearly 75% likely suffered from CTE. The findings have amplified concerns about the neurological toll professional football may take on athletes.

Aaron Donald, 35, a defensive tackle who retired after the 2023 season but has since rejoined the Rams, acknowledged the reality of the disease. “That’s a real thing,” Donald said when asked about the study, but added that players tend not to dwell on such risks. “You don’t think about it. You just play. When you sign up to play football, you know what you’re signing up for. You obviously don’t want nothing like that to occur.”

Wide receiver Puka Nacua, 25, emphasized the value of increased awareness among younger players. “I think it’s something that’s obviously very prevalent in our sport, and the more information, the better I think we’re able to take care of ourselves,” he said, reflecting on the importance of education regarding brain health.

Offensive lineman Kevin Dotson, 30, described his use of protective equipment, such as a guardian cap worn over his helmet during practices and games, as providing limited reassurance. “It’s almost like a placebo effect,” he said, calling the gear “more of a dampener than a savior.” Dotson pointed out the difficult balance players face between the financial rewards of football and the potential long-term health risks. He described this as a “double-edged sword,” adding that concerns about CTE weigh on players’ minds as they contemplate career longevity. “It’s one of those things, you’ve just got to keep that in the back of your mind that this is a possibility,” he said. “So every time you think about retirement or stuff like that, you think the longer I play the better chance of me getting CTE.”

As awareness of CTE grows, players across the NFL continue to grapple with how to protect their health while pursuing careers in a physically demanding and high-profile sport.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.