NFL Retirees Attempt to Intervene in Concussion Settlement Rejected

A federal judge has rejected an attempt by seven former professional football players to intervene in a tentative class action settlement of concussion claims that would cost the NFL at least $765 million.

Senior U.S. District Judge Anita Brody issued an order in Philadelphia late Tuesday denying the NFL retirees’ motion to intervene in the case.

The players object to the settlement, calling it a “lousy deal” for ex-players whose symptoms don’t qualify them for compensation. Brody’s order said that players who object to the deal can raise their concerns at a fairness hearing scheduled for Nov. 19, or opt out of the settlement.

Brody gave preliminary approval to the settlement earlier this month.

The group includes 2008 Pro Bowl player Sean Morey, now Princeton University’s sprint football coach.