New Findings Show Late NFL Player and Sportscaster Irv Cross Had Stage 4 CTE

NFL Sportscaster and former player Irv Cross, who passed away on March 1, 2021, had stage 4 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). According to new findings released by researchers at Boston University.

CTE is a degenerative brain disorder linked to repeated head trauma, like that experienced by athletes in contact sports like football. The disease can cause various symptoms, including memory loss, mood changes, also cognitive decline.

Cross, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles also the LA Rams from 1961 to 1969. He was known for his tough and hard-hitting style on the field. After quitting playing, he became a prominent sportscaster, working for CBS Sports for over a decade.

According to his family, Cross had been experiencing symptoms of CTE in the years leading up to his death. He had difficulty remembering things also would sometimes become confused and disoriented. These symptoms are consistent with those seen in individuals with advanced stages of CTE.

The new findings from Boston University’s CTE Center provide further evidence of the link between football and CTE. The researchers examined Cross’s brain tissue and found extensive damage consistent with stage 4 CTE.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Ann McKee, said, “Irv Cross was a tremendous athlete also broadcaster who dedicated his life to the game of football. Unfortunately, this disease has taken a toll on his brain, as it has for many other players who have sustained repeated head trauma.”

The findings underscore the urgent need for better protection for athletes who play contact sports like football.

Many experts have called for changes to the game’s rules. Such as eliminating or modifying certain types of plays that are particularly dangerous for the brain.

Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the importance of early detection also treatment for CTE.

In the wake of Cross’s death and the new findings about his CTE, many in the NFL community have expressed their condolences and renewed their commitment to addressing the issue of head trauma in sports. As former NFL player and current ESPN analyst Ryan Clark tweeted, “Rest In Peace to Irv Cross. We must continue to work to ensure this doesn’t happen to anyone else.”