Two years ago, two black retired players sued the NFL for alleged discrimination against African-American players who filed a lawsuit against the turmoil settlement program set up after the final settlement of the case. Players Najeh Davenport and Kevin Henry said the competition in the NFL has adjusted their neurological examinations, which has prevented them from being compensated.
U.S. District Judge Anita Brody eventually dismissed the players’ lawsuit and ordered a mediator to address concerns about how race correction was being used.
The New York Times reported in October that the league and players had reached an agreement to end the use of competition rules, suggesting that players assessed for neurocognitive impairment start with poorer cognitive function if they are black.
With changes to the concussion agreement approved by Brody, retired black players who have been denied payment for dementia can be reinstated by previous tests or to file new claims, said a lawyer for Davenport and Henry.
“We are very pleased that the court approved the agreement,” said lawyer Cyril W. Smith. “It’s a huge win for black NFL retirees. We believe thousands of former black players will benefit.”
CNN turned to the NFL for comment.
According to a summary report from the NFL Settlement Program published earlier this week, 2,078 of the 3,322 cash prizes were paid for early to moderate dementia (levels 1.5 and 2 claims).
More than 920 claims in these categories were rejected for various reasons.
NFL parties have paid more than $ 944 million as part of the program.