Concussion Claims Predicted To Reach Over $500 Million in Two Years
Concussion Claims Predicted To Reach Over $500 Million in Two Years
It has been nine years since GQ published a long form article on concussions in the NFL. The gripping feature shed light on the adverse impact of concussions, and the NFL’s apparent nonchalance on the matter. In 2015, the league had no choice but to confront the matter as more than 5,000 former players filed class-action lawsuits against the NFL.
The settlement “covers retired players who develop neurological problems believed to be caused by concussions suffered during their pro careers.” And according to Christopher Seeger, the ex-players’ co-lead counsel, the approval of over $500 million in claims is proof that the settlement is “fulfilling its promise to former NFL players and their families.” He then encouraged all eligible former players to “immediately sign up for a baseline assessment” so that they would be compensated in the future should they “develop a qualifying condition.” If that happens, the long-term cost of the league’s concussion settlement may rise exponentially, especially if nothing is done now to mitigate the life-altering effects of hard hits to the head.
But the NFL is now taking a proactive approach in the battle against concussions, and the league is relying on technology in this regard. In a Coral feature on technology’s impact on sports, they note how “smart helmets reduce the risk of brain injuries, using sensors and magnet technology”. The league’s two chief helmet-makers, Riddell and Schutt, have already introduced some of the most technologically advanced helmets yet. Riddell’s helmets have been designed in such a way that on-field vision is maximized so that players can better avoid “blindside” hits. Each helmet is also specially made to fi
t into a player’s head snugly yet comfortably. Schutt manufactures “Tektonic” plates helmets that make use of TPU cushioning which moves independently of the helmet, thus lessening the impact of a hard hit.
The issue of concussions will likely linger far longer even as the NFL continues paying every claim approved by the courts. The total cost of this settlement will be massive, and the league has no one to blame but itself.
Solely written for nfldraftdiamonds.com by Skye Butler