Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, is a progressive brain disorder that arises from the cumulative effect of repeated head impacts in football, even when those hits do not result in a diagnosed concussion.
A recent analysis of deaths between 2016 and 2021 found that at least one quarter of former NFL players examined post‑mortem showed signs of CTE, a finding that has prompted the league to highlight its ongoing efforts to curb head injuries.
Medical experts stress that CTE can only be confirmed after death, which means that prevention and treatment strategies must rely on indirect evidence and the monitoring of sub‑concussive blows that accumulate over a career.
The issue gained renewed attention after the fatal on‑field injury of a 17‑year‑old quarterback from a Wisconsin high school, a case that sparked nationwide discussion about the risks faced by young athletes.
School‑Level Safeguards
In response, Durham Public Schools has introduced a suite of safety measures for its football programs, including the use of Guardian Caps — padded shells that cover helmets — and mandatory on‑site medical evaluations for any player who sustains a head impact.
Athletic trainers are now tasked with strict concussion protocols, ensuring that any suspected injury is assessed promptly and that players and their families receive appropriate follow‑up care.