Former Pittsburgh Steelers Pro Bowlers Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell recently had a discussion on Brown’s “CTESPN” podcast about their departures from the team and their concerns regarding chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This disease, common among NFL players, results in mental degeneration in individuals who have experienced repeated concussions and brain injuries. Brown has publicly claimed to have CTE on multiple occasions, and during the podcast, he questioned Bell about whether he thought they might have the disease as well. Bell initially believed CTE was linked to brain damage, but Brown offered his own definition, denying that it causes brain damage and suggesting that it is instead a collection of traumatic incidents.
Brown shared that he believes his CTE was caused by a hit from former Steelers linebacker James Harrison during an Instagram live session. He attributed his increased aggression to this incident and jokingly blamed Harrison for having CTE. Brown and Bell also discussed childhood experiences that they believe contributed to the development of trauma and aggression. Bell recounted a story from when he was four years old and was made to play multiple positions on the football field by his uncle, which he believes had lasting effects on his behavior. Brown suggested that traumatic childhood experiences can lead to the development of anger and aggression later in life.
In addition to their discussion about CTE, the podcast also touched on the legal troubles that Brown has faced in recent years. In December, domestic charges were brought against him following an incident at his Florida home, although the charges were later dismissed. Brown was also ordered to pay a moving truck driver $1.2 million after an alleged assault in February 2020. Despite these legal issues, Brown and Bell were able to come together for this candid conversation about their experiences and struggles, shedding light on the challenges faced by professional athletes both on and off the field.
The conversation between Brown and Bell offered a glimpse into the personal and physical toll that playing professional football can take on individuals. They shared their own experiences with traumatic incidents and the lasting effects they believe these incidents have had on their mental health. Brown’s claims regarding CTE sparked a discussion about the disease and its impact on former NFL players, highlighting the need for further research and support for athletes dealing with the long-term consequences of concussions and brain injuries.
Overall, the podcast provided an opportunity for Brown and Bell to reflect on their careers, including their time with the Steelers and the challenges they have faced since leaving the team. While their exits from Pittsburgh were not without controversy, the two former teammates were able to come together for a candid conversation about their shared experiences and struggles. By opening up about their fears and concerns regarding CTE and other mental health issues, Brown and Bell shed light on the challenges faced by professional athletes and the importance of addressing these issues both on and off the field.
