The new movie Concussion has joined a heated debate about the future of America's biggest sport and the brain damage it causes its players. Based on a true story, Will Smith plays Bennet Omalu. The Nigerian forensic pathologist discovered a disease, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), that had been devastating former football players for decades. Omalu autopsied a famous former Pittsburg Steeler after the player had died at the age of 50 plagued by dementia and depression. The Nigerian pathologist was able to find the link between players' mental health issues and the brain damage they suffered as NFL players. The resulting court case and settlement, which were only just finalized this year, are projected to cost the NFL $1 billion over 65 years. Of the 20,000 retired NFL players during that time, nearly 6,000 will be diagnosed with Alzheimers or dementia.
