NFL Concussion Settlement Denied By Judge; Is It Too Low?
The $765 million NFL concussion settlement is being put on hold after U.S. District Judge Anita B. Brody requested a deeper financial analysis from both sides.
According to ESPN.com News Services, the judge denied it because she feared that it would not be enough money to cover more than 20,000 retired football players.
Because of the waiting required to complete the analysis, neither side seemed upset with the denial of approval.
"We respect Judge Brody's request for additional information as a step towards preliminary approval," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said in a statement released this week. "We will work with the plaintiffs' attorneys to supply that information promptly to the court and special master. We are confident that the settlement is fair and adequate, and look forward to demonstrating that to the court."
On the other hand, the attorneys of the retired players also spoke up, such as Christopher Seeger.
"We are confident that the settlement will be approved after the Court conducts its due diligence on the fairness and adequacy of the proposed agreement," Seeger said. "Analysis from economists, actuaries and medical experts will confirm that the programs established by the settlement will be sufficiently funded to meet their obligations for all eligible retired players. We look forward to working with the Court and Special Master to address their concerns, as they rightfully ensure all class members are protected.
"We believe this is an extraordinary settlement for retired NFL players and their families, and have received overwhelming support as they have learned about its benefits. We look forward to finalizing this agreement so they can soon begin taking advantage of its benefits."
Both sides have fought back and forth for some time but it was not until recently when the dangerous risks of playing football became more exposed.
What do you think about this settlement? Let us know in the comments section.