Former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Mark Duper has tested positive for signs of the condition chronic traumatic encephalopathy, according to Bruce Feldman of CBS Sports. The news is reportedly coming straight from Duper.
Mark Duper the latest NFL veteran diagnosed with CTE, per report
The former Miami Dolphins wide receiver is just the latest former player to be diagnosed with chronic trauamatic encephalopathy.
Getty Images Sport
He joins a growing list of former NFL players to be diagnoses with CTE, which is a degenerative brain condition caused by a build up of abnormal protein that attacks the center of the brain. The center of the brain controls memory and emotional functions, as well as many ancillary processes.
The protein is believed to form over time if the individual has suffered repeated blows to the head, such as concussions. Most recently, a three-month UCLA study revealed that NFL Hall of Famers Tony Dorsett and Joe DeLamielleure, as well as All Pro Leonard Marshall have been diagnosed with the condition.
Duper was drafted by the Dolphins as a second-round pick in 1982, and played 11 seasons for the team. He caught passes from Dan Marino, was named to the Pro Bowl three times and was an All-Pro selection in 1983 and 1984.
The NFL is taking head injuries seriously, making more and more rules to limit head-to-head collisions, but there has been no word on plans (or lack thereof) to support retired players dealing with things such as CTE.
More from SB Nation NFL
See More:
