In a legal battle closely watched by both past and present NFL athletes and fans, a lawsuit alleging the NFL’s denial of valid injury claims from retired players is making pivotal advances. The class-action suit targeting the board overseeing the NFL's disability plan is gaining serious traction, foregrounding a significant discussion on the treatment of players after their retirement due to injuries sustained during their careers.
Class Action Suit Moves to Trial
Representing the challenges faced by numerous retired NFL players, the suit has successfully passed to the trial phase on most counts, marking a critical step forward in the fight for player rights and welfare. Spearheaded by attorneys Chris Seeger and Sam Katz, who previously played significant roles in the concussion lawsuits that culminated in over $1 billion in settlements, the legal team represents ten retired players pushing forward this class action case against the NFL.
Allegations of Systemic Wrongdoing
At the heart of the lawsuit are accusations that officials of the NFL disability program acted in bad faith and violated federal laws designed to protect players. It's alleged that the disability plan, which reported expectations to pay out about $330 million last year, frequently sees its referred doctors denying player claims. These payments, ranging from $65,000 to $265,000, are vital for the livelihood of players suffering from post-career injuries, yet reports suggest a systematic denial of claims, with one doctor alone having denied 29 player claims.
The Human Cost
The battle isn't just in courtrooms or on paper but in the lived experiences of players like Willis McGahee, who has undergone over a dozen surgeries since leaving the NFL. Eric Smith shares a similarly harrowing tale, experiencing blackouts and violent episodes, while Mike McKenzie battles severe headaches and pain daily, legacies of their sacrifices on the field. Their stories exemplify the personal stakes involved, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and reform within the NFL's disability program.
A Big Win for Justice
As the case proceeds to the discovery phase, the legal team views the judge's recent decision to move forward as "a huge win." This sentiment echoes the aspirations of many former NFL athletes seeking justice and recognition of the injuries sustained during their careers. With other plaintiffs named in the lawsuit, the case underlines the widespread grievances among retired players, pointing to systemic issues within the NFL's disability program that may soon be brought to light in the trial.
This lawsuit represents more than just a legal battle; it is a call to action for significant reforms within the NFL to ensure that players who have given their all on the field are not left behind once they retire. The complexities of this case, coupled with the deeply personal and distressing accounts of affected players, demand a thorough examination of the practices surrounding the NFL’s treatment of its retired players and their health concerns. As this case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether it will catalyze the necessary changes within the league's disability program, offering hope and support to those who have sacrificed so much in the pursuit of the sport they love.