Watch CBS News

Nick Buoniconti Will Donate Brain To Support Research Of CTE

BOSTON (AP) — Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Nick Buoniconti says he'll donate his brain to Boston University to support research of chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

In May, Buoniconti revealed he was diagnosed with dementia, and his doctors suspect CTE may contribute to his symptoms, which include impaired cognition, behavior and motor control.

"My life, as I know it, has been taken away from me," Buoniconti said in a statement Friday. "I hope that my story and contribution will help thousands of others who are in this journey, or who will follow me."

Buoniconti, 76, helped the Miami Dolphins achieve the NFL's only perfect season in 1972. He also played for the Boston Patriots and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2001.

(© Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.