The $765 Million Question: Examining the NFL Concussion Lawsuit Settlement
In 2013, the National Football League (NFL) reached a tentative $765 million settlement regarding concussion-related brain injuries among its retired players. This landmark agreement aimed to compensate victims, fund medical exams, and underwrite research, addressing claims that the NFL concealed the dangers of concussions. But over a decade later, has this settlement truly delivered on its promises?
A League of Lawsuits: The Genesis of the Settlement
The NFL concussion lawsuit stemmed from a growing body of evidence linking repeated head trauma in football to long-term neurological issues. More than 4,500 former athletes, some battling dementia, depression, or Alzheimer’s, sued the league, alleging that the NFL concealed the dangers of concussions and rushed injured players back onto the field. These players argued that the NFL prioritized profits over player safety, glorifying violent hits while downplaying their potential consequences.
Among the prominent plaintiffs were Hall of Famer Tony Dorsett, Super Bowl-winning quarterback Jim McMahon, and the family of Pro Bowl linebacker Junior Seau, who committed suicide in 2012. Seau’s death, along with other high-profile cases of former players suffering from CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy), brought increased attention to the issue of head injuries in football.
The Terms of the Deal: A Breakdown of the $765 Million
The proposed $765 million settlement was structured to address various needs of the former players. The key components included:
- Compensation for Cognitive Injuries: Approximately $675 million was earmarked for compensating former players who had suffered cognitive impairments, as well as their families in some cases. Individual awards were capped at \$5 million for men with Alzheimer’s disease, \$4 million for those diagnosed after their deaths with CTE, and \$3 million for players with dementia.
- Medical Exams: \$75 million was allocated for baseline medical exams to determine if retired players were suffering from neurocognitive impairment and to assess their eligibility for further testing or treatment.
- Research and Education: \$10 million was designated for a research and education fund focused on concussion-related injuries.
- Administrative Costs: The settlement also covered the costs of notifying class members and administering the settlement.
Doubts Arise: Is the Settlement Enough?
While the settlement was initially hailed as a landmark agreement, concerns soon emerged about whether the \$765 million would be sufficient to cover the needs of all eligible players. In January 2014, a federal judge rejected the proposed settlement, expressing concerns that the sum was insufficient to provide adequate long-term care for the thousands of affected players.
Ultimately, the settlement was revised and approved, with the NFL agreeing to remove the cap on the monetary award fund. This meant that the NFL would be responsible for paying all valid claims for 65 years, regardless of the total amount.
A Decade Later: Where Does the Settlement Stand?
As of July 2025, the NFL concussion settlement is still ongoing. While the NFL has paid out over \$1.5 billion in payable monetary awards, questions remain about the fairness and efficiency of the claims process.
- Approved Claims: As of July 21, 2025, over 2,000 claims have been deemed payable, with the NFL having paid out over $1.5 billion.
- Denials and Appeals: A significant number of claims have been denied, leading to accusations that the NFL is using loopholes and strict medical criteria to avoid payouts.
- Racial Bias Allegations: There have been allegations that the NFL’s use of race-based adjustments to neurocognitive test scores has resulted in Black players being unfairly denied compensation.
Advice for Former NFL Players
If you are a former NFL player who believes you may be eligible for compensation under the concussion settlement, here’s some advice:
- Register for Benefits: Ensure you are registered with the settlement program to receive notifications and updates.
- Undergo a Baseline Assessment: Take advantage of the free baseline neurological exam to assess your current cognitive function.
- Consult with an Attorney: Seek legal advice from an attorney experienced in handling NFL concussion claims. They can help you navigate the complex claims process and protect your rights.
- Document Your Medical History: Maintain thorough records of your medical history, including any diagnoses of cognitive impairment or neurological conditions.
- Be Persistent: The claims process can be lengthy and challenging, so be prepared to advocate for yourself and appeal any denials.
The Future of Player Safety
The NFL concussion lawsuit settlement has undoubtedly raised awareness about the long-term risks of head injuries in football. While the settlement provides some measure of compensation for affected players, it is essential that the NFL continues to prioritize player safety by implementing stricter concussion protocols, investing in research, and providing comprehensive medical care for current and former players.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are a former NFL player seeking compensation for concussion-related injuries, consult with a qualified attorney.