Giants RB Cam Skattebo apologizes for controversial podcast comments

Skattebo dismissed CTE and asthma as 'fake' on a podcast, drawing backlash on social media.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:27am

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New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo is facing criticism after dismissing the existence of CTE and asthma as 'fake' during a podcast interview. Skattebo, who was selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, made the controversial comments on the 'Bring the Juice' podcast, sparking outrage from fans, reporters, and medical advocates on social media. Skattebo has since posted a public apology, acknowledging a 'lapse in judgment' and assuring he will be 'more mindful and respectful going forward'.

Why it matters

Skattebo's comments have drawn significant backlash, as CTE and asthma are serious medical conditions that affect many athletes. The Giants need no additional off-field distractions as Skattebo works to recover from an ankle injury sustained last season, and the team's new coaching staff under head coach John Harbaugh will want to avoid any further controversies.

The details

During the podcast interview, host Frank Dalena asked Skattebo directly if he believed CTE was 'a real thing', to which Skattebo replied 'No. It's an excuse.' Dalena then suggested that asthma is also an excuse, and Skattebo agreed, saying 'Asthma's fake. Just literally breathe air.' These comments sparked immediate backlash on social media, with fans, reporters, and medical advocates criticizing Skattebo for downplaying the seriousness of these conditions.

  • The podcast episode aired on March 12, 2026.
  • Skattebo's comments went viral on Saturday, March 22, 2026.
  • Skattebo posted a public apology on the same day, March 22, 2026.

The players

Cam Skattebo

A running back for the New York Giants, selected in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Arizona State University.

Frank Dalena

The host of the 'Bring the Juice' podcast, where Skattebo made his controversial comments.

John Harbaugh

The new head coach of the New York Giants, who will want to avoid any further off-field distractions as the team looks to bounce back from Skattebo's injury-plagued 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“I recently did an interview and had a lapse in judgment, which resulted in me making a tasteless joke about CTE and asthma. It was never my intention to downplay the seriousness of head injuries or asthma. I sincerely apologize to anyone that was offended by my remarks, and I assure you that I'll be more mindful and respectful going forward.”

— Cam Skattebo

The takeaway

Skattebo's controversial comments have sparked a significant backlash, highlighting the need for athletes to be more mindful and respectful when discussing serious medical conditions. As the Giants look to move forward with a new coaching staff, they will want to ensure Skattebo's off-field behavior does not become a distraction, especially as he works to recover from his own injury concerns.