A recent lawsuit has brought to light accusations against the NFL’s disability plan, claiming that retired players are routinely denied valid injury claims. The lawsuit, filed last year, alleges that officials overseeing the program have acted in bad faith and violated federal law. U.S. District Judge Julie R. Rubin has ruled that the lawsuit can proceed to trial on most counts, allowing the case to move forward against the board. However, the commissioner, Roger Goodell, and the trustees were not individually accused of any wrongdoing.
Lawyers representing 10 retired players involved in the potential class action lawsuit have hailed the recent ruling as a “huge win” for those facing what they describe as “systemic injustice.” The legal team, consisting of Chris Seeger and Sam Katz, expressed their excitement about continuing to shed light on the NFL’s alleged betrayal and holding the disability plan fully accountable for its actions. This lawsuit marks another battle for Seeger, who previously represented players in concussion cases that resulted in a billion-dollar settlement.
The lawsuit alleges that the disability plan has failed to provide benefits to former players despite their lingering physical and cognitive injuries sustained during their time in the NFL. The program, established as part of the 2011 collective bargaining agreement, was intended to assist ailing former players. However, the plaintiffs claim that successful claims are often not awarded the maximum possible amount, leaving retirees struggling with the aftermath of their football careers.
Former players involved in the lawsuit, such as Willis McGahee and Eric Smith, have shared their struggles with physical and mental health issues resulting from their time in the NFL. McGahee, a first-round draft pick who spent 11 seasons in the league, has undergone numerous surgeries and faces difficulties playing with his children due to his injuries. Smith, a former safety for the New York Jets, continues to experience blackouts and violent episodes as a result of brain injuries sustained during his football career.
The lawsuit also raises concerns about the objectivity of the doctors evaluating players for disability claims. Allegations suggest that doctors who deny claims are more likely to receive repeat referrals from the program, creating a potential conflict of interest. One neuropsychologist, who reportedly received over $800,000, denied claims for 29 former players without exception, according to the plaintiffs’ lawyers.
As the lawsuit progresses to the discovery phase, where evidence will be exchanged between the two parties, the plaintiffs remain hopeful that the board overseeing the disability plan will be held accountable for their actions. The retired players involved in the case, including Mike McKenzie, Jason Alford, and Charles Sims, are seeking justice and recognition for the challenges they continue to face as a result of their football careers. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the NFL and its treatment of retired players seeking assistance for their injuries.
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