Football causes brain injuries. How can we justify playing? | Opinion

Football is linked to brain injuries, specifically chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Discussing these medical concerns in social settings, such as sports bars, tailgates, or family gatherings while watching the game, is often poorly received. Bringing up these health risks can make a person feel unwelcome or unappreciated by others in those environments. The core issue remains how to justify the continued playing of the sport given the documented risks of long-term neurological damage to the athletes.