After murder conviction and suicide, Aaron Hernandez found to have severe CTE

Enlarge / New England Patriots player Aaron Hernandez in January 2013. (credit: Getty | Boston Globe)

Former New England Patriots' tight end Aaron Hernandez had a severe case of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease associated with repeated head trauma. The finding was announced today in a press conference held by his lawyer, according to the New York Times.

CTE leads to progressive cognitive impairment and behavioral regulation problems-and it has notably been linked to depression, suicide, and impulsive and violent behavior.

Hernandez committed suicide in April while serving a life sentence for the 2013 murder of his friend. He was 27.

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