by Declan Jordan
In a recent post I considered the need for regulation by sports bodies for players suffering from concussion. Such regulation would protect them from themselves and coaches and clubs that may put pressure on them to continue playing while concussed.
It was interesting then to see that the NFL have agreed to settle pending lawsuits from 4,000 retired players. The players claimed the NFL did not properly warn them of the dangers and did not do all it could to help the players suffering from the effects. The settlement is $765 million. It's unclear if that will be enough to address the health needs of former players suffering from long-term effects of the hits taken in the sport.
What is particularly noteworthy though is that a settlement was made at all. It does not come with any admittance of liability, but this outcome has to be a concern for other contact sports and suggests that they need to develop prompt regulations around concussion and protection for players. Even if not for the good of its players, the sports bodies need to act in their wn long-term financial interest.
It was interesting then to see that the NFL have agreed to settle pending lawsuits from 4,000 retired players. The players claimed the NFL did not properly warn them of the dangers and did not do all it could to help the players suffering from the effects. The settlement is $765 million. It's unclear if that will be enough to address the health needs of former players suffering from long-term effects of the hits taken in the sport.
What is particularly noteworthy though is that a settlement was made at all. It does not come with any admittance of liability, but this outcome has to be a concern for other contact sports and suggests that they need to develop prompt regulations around concussion and protection for players. Even if not for the good of its players, the sports bodies need to act in their wn long-term financial interest.
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