When former Steelers center Mike Webster passed away at the age of 50 from a heart attack, one pathologist took a leap of faith to make one of the most significant discoveries in brain health in recent years.
Dr. Bennet Omalu's unearthing of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE, highlighted the inherent danger of impact sports, especially American football.
"The NFL is a corporation," Omalu said. "They have the right to do what they're doing but if I were to advise them as a consultant, I would advise them, "Look, as you're making money, recognize the humanity of your product."
Our Reno Public Radio reporter talked to Omalu earlier this week to discuss his career and the future of brain safety, namely in young athletes.