Demaryius Thomas had C.T.E. when he died in December at 33, but the posthumous diagnosis alone does not explain what role football had in the charismatic N.F.L. star’s quick decline.
Scott Vermillion, a former college star who played four seasons in M.L.S., died in 2020. He is the first American professional soccer player with a public case of C.T.E.
In a study, Dr. Jennifer Coughlin observed brain activity that may help predict the onset of trauma-related illnesses and cognitive decline. N.F.L. players are helping to further her research.
Paul McCrory helped write the bible of concussion treatment recommendations. But when he was accused of plagiarizing, many scientists took aim at his relationships to the sports leagues he advised.