The National Football League and thousands of retired players have reached a "historic" settlement. The retired players accused the league of concealing the dangers of head injuries incurred while they played in the NFL.

A court document was filed in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia. It calls for the NFL to pay 765 million dollars to fund medical exams, compensation, and medical research for retired NFL players and their families. The deal also covers litigation expenses.

The agreement is pending approval by the judge. The case involves more than 4,500 former NFL players.

Former U.S. District Judge Layn Phillips said, "This is a historic agreement, one that will make sure that former NFL players who need and deserve compensation will receive it, and that will promote safety for players at all levels of football. Rather than litigate literally thousands of complex individual claims over many years, the parties have reached an agreement that, if approved, will provide relief and support where it is needed at a time when it is most needed."

 

The class-action suit alleged the league didn't adequately inform players that they risked permanent brain damage if they returned to the field too soon after sustaining a concussion. It also alleged the league concealed evidence about the risks for decades.

 

 

 

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