Former NFL Players Hit NFL with Lawsuit over Handling of Head Injuries

A large group of former NFL players have brought all of their lawsuits together to form one massive case against the NFL for the league's handling of head injuries. It's a combination of more than 80 pending cases, according to the Associated Press (via ESPN).

The power-in-numbers approach is an attempt to consolidate all of the information into one lawsuit to make it as strong as possible. Former players believe the NFL hasn't done enough to curb the concussion epidemic or help those who suffered head injuries during their playing career.

In the complaint, it's argued that the league has known about the potential serious injuries that can be caused by repeated blows to the head but didn't do anything about it to ensure the health of its players:

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The NFL, like the sport of boxing, was aware of the health risks associated with repetitive blows producing sub-concussive and concussive results and the fact that some members of the NFL player population were at significant risk of developing long-term brain damage and cognitive decline as a result.

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The players also argue that the league helped influence big hits by placing them on a pedestal in NFL Films highlight shows. The wide-ranging complaint was filed in federal court as former stars continue to seek assurances about their long-term health.

After hearing about the lawsuit, the NFL released a statement, according to the AP report. It didn't provide any new information, only to say that player safety has always been a priority and will continue to be moving forward.

The rash of lawsuits comes during the same offseason in which the league is dealing with a bounty scandal involving the New Orleans Saints, where players were reportedly given incentives for fierce hits that knocked other opponents out of games.

It's an issue that clearly won't be going away any time soon.