NFL Compensation Package Agreed
The NFL and over 4,500 ex-players have reached a $765 (£494m) tentative settlement for concussion-related brain injuries.
Over the past few years the NFL has been under intense scrutiny resulting in many reviews of safety procedures as the link between brain injuries and concussions brought on by high and heavy tackles was proven.
The various lawsuits are made up of over 4,500 ex-players suffering from brain injuries and conditions including Alzhiemer’s disease and Dimentia.
The class-action settlement, unprecedented in sports, was announced Thursday after two months of court-ordered mediation and is subject to approval by a federal judge.
It came exactly a week before the first game of the 2013 season, removing a major legal and financial threat hanging over the sport.
On top of establishing new safety protocols regarding tackling more safely, all ex NFL players are eligible to receive screening, treatment and compensation if they qualify.
The NFL said Commissioner Roger Goodell told pro football’s lawyers to “do the right thing for the game and the men who played it”.
The reaction to the settlement varies depending on who you ask, but overall the belief is that the NFL and Commissioner Goodell are now handling these issues appropriately and are taking the necessary steps to protecting both the players and the longevity of the game.
