New York Giants RB Cam Skattebo is embroiled in controversy after some comments he made on a podcast when viral. Famous for his hard-headed running style and endearing on-field persona, Skattebo is under fire for his dismissive comments on CTE and asthma.
The Giants are picking at No. 5 in this draft and have been linked to star Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love if he makes it past the Titans at No. 4. Despite having Skattebo coming off a promising rookie season, he is recovering from a serious ankle injury that ended his season — and New York has concerns about the longevity of his career given his playstyle.
In eight games as a rookie for the Giants, Skattebo ran for 410 yards and five touchdowns, adding 24 receptions for 207 yards and another two touchdowns. The Giants were a different offense when Skattebo was on the field.
New York Giants RB Cam Skattebo Doesn’t Believe in CTE or Asthma
GettyEAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 09: Cam Skattebo #44 of the New York Giants celebrates after carrying the ball across the goal line for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on October 09, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Appearing on a podcast recently, Skattebo let his thoughts on CTE and asthma be known.
“Do you think CTE is a real thing?” the host asked.
“No,” Skattebo replied. “It’s an excuse.”
“I think asthma is an excuse too. Is that a hot take?” the host continued.
“Yeah. That’s a good take,” Skattebo said. “Asthma’s fake.”
“Is there anything worse than in fourth grade, [when] someone’s huffing and puffing? You’re just soft.”
“Yeah,” Skattebo agreed. “Just literally…breathe air.”
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy — or CTE — is serious neurodegenerative disease caused by repeated head trauma. Symptoms can include mood swings, behavioral problems, memory issues, and it can lead to dementia and death. It’s unfortunately common among retired NFL athletes due to the beatings they take throughout their playing careers.
Asthma, meanwhile, is a common respiratory inflammatory disease that can vary in severity. Both are quite real and impact people all over the world. CTE, in particular, is of particular risk to Skattebo given all the hits he takes playing the sport he loves.
Skattebo’s comments, which have been correctly identified as ignorant and dangerous, have landed him in hot water. It makes sense that the Giants might want some insurance for a guy who doesn’t believe CTE is real.
The New York Giants Have a Lot of Options Picking at No. 5 Overall
As mentioned earlier, the Giants are eyeing Love at No. 5. Ohio State LB Sonny Styles is another popular connection to make there, as his insane athletic gifts paired with his advanced knowledge of the game make for an exceptional player.
But this draft is heavy on pass rushers, if the Giants want to use another top five pick on one. They could also be in position to take the first receiver off the board, if they want to go back to the well there. New York has no shortage of options with their first-round pick.
Giants RB Cam Skattebo’s Controversial CTE Comments Go Viral