Six former NFL players and one current player filed the first ever class-action lawsuit against the NFL over the league’s handling of concussions in Philadelphia on Wednesday.
The players — including two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback Jim McMahon — accused the league of teaching tacklers to lead with their heads, improperly treating concussions and concealing for decades the connections between football and brain injuries. The suit seeks funds for medical monitoring and care.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said that while the league was not yet familiar with the suit, it would fight any claims of wrongdoing.
Another lawsuit against the NFL was filed in Los Angeles in July. In that case, 75 players alleged the NFL has concealed the dangers of concussions since the 1920s. That lawsuit also includes official NFL helmet manufacturer Riddel.
Because this new lawsuit is a class-action suit, however, it could potentially include any player who has ever suffered a concussion or head injury in the NFL.
“Our goal is much larger, perhaps more daunting,” said the players’ attorney, Larry Coben.
The other six plaintiffs are Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas; Mike Furrey, 34, wide receiver for four NFL teams since 2003; Wayne Radloff, 50, former Falcons and 49ers offensive lineman; Gerry Feehery, 51, former Eagles center; Ray Easterling, 61, former Falcons defensive back; and Steve Kiner, 64, former Cowboys linebacker.