NFL players with advanced CTE got lowest impairment rating in league testing

A recent Boston University study published in JAMA Network Open has revealed that NFL players diagnosed with advanced CTE after death, but who also exhibited cognitive impairment during their lifetime, were still awarded the lowest impairment rating under the NFL Concussion Settlement. The research, which examined 33 players diagnosed with CTE after an autopsy who had completed the baseline assessment program (BAP) as part of the 2014 settlement, is considered the largest of its kind to date.

Seven participants had Stage 3 or 4 CTE, with six of those seven showing measurable cognitive impairment on testing. However, all seven received Level 0 on the BAP's system, the lowest impairment rating. This finding suggests that the BAP's diagnostic criteria may overlook cases of cognitive impairment that are objectively measurable and linked to confirmed CTE pathology, which could impact former players seeking diagnosis and potential compensation through the settlement.

The participants' average age at testing was 63, with an average age of death of 65. Short-term memory loss was the most common issue, affecting 63% of the participants, while executive function (52%) and language (41%) were other common impairments.