Elle Duncan criticized for off-topic comments during Tua Tagovailoa concussion talk on First Take

Duncan draws criticism for diverting a discussion on Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion to Black women's C-section risks.

ESPN anchor Elle Duncan is facing backlash after interrupting a segment about Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion to highlight the dangers faced by Black women during C-sections. 

During the discussion on ESPN’s First Take, Duncan shifted the conversation, responding to Stephen A. Smith's remarks about men sacrificing for their families by sharing her personal experience. She stated, “As a woman who has had two C-sections to provide for my family, I understand sacrifice. A Black woman in this country, whose mortality rates are incredibly high, I understand making sacrifices."

ESPN “analyst” Elle Duncan interrupts a segment about Tua Tagovailoa suffering a concussion to deliver a PSA about the dangers of black women having C-sections.

Seriously. pic.twitter.com/LEVhkAs7CZ

— OutKick (@Outkick) September 13, 2024

The sudden shift in focus drew criticism, with viewers feeling her comments were off-topic, especially in light of the serious nature of Tagovailoa's injury. Tagovailoa exited the Dolphins' 31-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills after sustaining a concussion from a collision with Bills safety Damar Hamlin. His body went limp, and his arm exhibited the "fencing" response, a common sign of traumatic brain injury. He was ruled out shortly after.

In addition to her role on ESPN, Duncan has been active in supporting children’s health initiatives through Walker, a non-profit organization focused on special education and behavioral health. She has participated in their Change Shoes, Change Lives events and volunteered with youth programs.