Former Chiefs defensive end Neil Smith sued the NFL in federal court last week, alleging it has not done enough to prevent the brain injuries from which he now suffers. Smith, 46, contended in his suit that because of repeated and misdiagnosed concussions he suffers from “permanent and debilitating injuries,†including loss of memory, “cognitive impairment†and early-onset dementia. “Indeed, Mr. Smith suffered three concussions — all of which were improperly diagnosed and treated — in one game during the 1988 season,†the suit alleged. “Despite exhibiting concussion symptoms, Mr. Smith was regularly returned to play, significantly increasing his chances of longterm brain damage.†Smith, who lives in Lee’s Summit, played for the Chiefs from 1988 to 1996, then appeared in two Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos and played his last season for the San Diego Chargers in 2000. He was selected to six Pro Bowls. Smith explained in the suit that he was suing the league, and not the teams, because it has “shouldered for itself a common law duty to provide players with rules and information that protect them as much as possible from short-term and long-term health risks.†Source: Kansas City Star
Another one on the money train..All sad both ways looking at it. Medical should be for ever for these guys.
Preety soon,The NFL will start asking these guys to sign papers not enabling them to sue for injuries!
