ATHLETIC ASSHOLES

[HairOfTheDog]

The old days, players wouldn't come out for concussions or would be back on the field in like 2 days, because players and coaches both wanted them on the field. Now, there's like protocols, and they have to see an outside specialist before they can even practice. I'm sure it's the same way with the team docs. None of the old-school 'dope em up, get em on the field' practices. It wouldn't fly in today's PC NFL.

Thanks for breaking it down; I'm getting a better idea of then vs. now.

Today I read that five other retired players filed a new suit seeking compensation for their concussions. The lawsuit was levied by Neil Smith, Ladell Betts, Anthony Davis, Christian Ballard and Gregory Westbrooks yesterday in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

This new suit was filed against the NFL Union on the basis that the players paid dues and weren't protected and/or were intentionally deceived by the NFL Players Association (the NFLPA) in regards to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The players named former union presidents Trace Armstrong, Troy Vincent and Kevin Mawae in the suit.

The NFLPA responded to the suit publicly. They essentially said, "chyea, riiiight". Here's the official statement:

"This lawsuit has no merit and we will defend our union and our past presidents," the NFLPA said in a statement. "It erroneously alleges that the NFLPA knowingly and fraudulently concealed from players the risks of head injuries players faced by playing in NFL games and practices over the last several decades.

"The NFLPA has made the health and safety of its members a priority and the advancements in professional football on concussion education, prevention and treatment are a result of our efforts."

Full piece: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/eagl...7cf48.html

Lotta litigation in the world of sports these days.