CTE and asthma have long been spoken about in the NFL, and New York Giants’ running back Cameron Skattebo may have learned this the hard way. Following a recent interview, Skattebo apologised for his insensitive “fake” comments, but even that has now resulted in a backlash.

On the Bring the Juice podcast, Skattebo aligned himself with the host's comments, which did not sit well with football fans, and neither did his apology. On Sunday, he shared an X post acknowledging his insensitive comments.

“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 who was offended by my remarks, and I assure you that I’ll be more mindful and respectful going forward. Much love !!!,” the 24-year-old wrote in his X post. 

Soon enough, NFL fans called out how long he took to apologize and refused to let this matter slide.

"Too late, I already threw my inhaler away. If anything happens, my death is on your hands," one fan reacted angrily.

While the apology had been issued, it was clear that his comments were beginning to overshadow an impressive rookie season in New York.

"to little to late on this one, Cam," another fan wrote. "When I woke up this morning I burned all 5 of your jerseys that I own. I know a person whose cousin suffers from asthma, and what you said is unforgivable. Do better."

One X user even sarcastically asked him to hold his ground, as he was seen doing, during the interview.

"Dont let Big Asthma get to your belief’s Cam," the comment read.

Some fans even took a playful approach to his change in tone compared to his take on the podcast.

"All good, we know it's just the CTE talking," one fan replied.

There were also those who didn't target the young running back, but instead, gave him stern advice.

"Dude..slow down at times and think before you speak, " the reaction read.

Skattebo made his comments last week alongside host Frank Dalena. The podcast itself has been around for a while now, having launched in August 2021, and often features off-field conversations with athletes.

For now, though, Skattebo has a long road ahead of him, both literally and metaphorically. After a season-ending injury after just eight games, the youngster will be keen to get back in form for 2026.

Cam Skattebo is Taking Baby Steps Towards his 2026 Return

Last season, the New York Giants had an awful season. A 4-13 record saw them finish at the bottom of the NFC West division. But there were a couple of silver linings in rookies Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo.

Unfortunately, a dislocated ankle for the running back meant that his season was cut short at 410 yards and five touchdowns. But with a new head coach (John Harbaugh) now at the helm, Skattebo would surely want to recover before Week 1, but his recovery is coming in baby steps.

"I can get away from like a baby hippo, maybe," Skattebo said this week of his recovery on The Rich Eisen Show. "That's about it. But, yeah, a little bit over a jog. Just kind of striding out, not exploding yet and getting into that part of the game, but the jog and the striding."

The running back was a 4th-round pick in the 2025 draft. Ironically, his rookie season came to an abrupt and painful end as he suffered a severe right ankle fracture and torn ligaments. 

He last played against the Philadelphia Eagles in October in a 38-20 loss. Right now, he is expected to return as the training camp commences. 

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote