A group of former NFL players and their wives claim are suing the NFL and helmet manufacturer Ridell " he suit alleges that The NFL knew as early as the 1920's of the harmful effects on a player's brain of concussions; however, until June of 2010 they concealed these facts from coaches, trainers, players and the public."
Among the 75 players -- Mark Duper, a former wide receiver for the Dolphins, as well as Ottis Anderson and Rodney Hampton, both former running backs for the Giants.
The suit claims the NFL commissioned a study in 1994, titled "NFL Committee on MIld Traumatic Brain Injury" and published a report in 2004, concluding there was "no evidence of worsening injury or chronic cumulative effects" from multiple concussions.
And, the suit alleges, it was not until June, 2010, that the NFL acknowledged concussions can lead to dementia, memory loss, CTE and related symptoms. All of the players are claiming they suffered injuries as a result of multiple concussions.
The suit seeks unspecified damages.
The lawsuit against the NFL will be difficult because of the collective bargaining agreement that was in place and the negotiated for workers compensation benefits. However, the lawsuit against Ridell may prove to be significant. If the players can show that Ridell knew that there helmets were not fit for their intended purpose, and that the design flaw lead to head related injuries-the players will win.
The lawsuit can open a wave of litigation against Ridell and all helmet manufacturers for all football players-pee wee to college, who suffered brain injuries.
