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NFL sued by ex-players over concussions

George Visger, former professional football player, speaks about his brain injury as he speaks out against the current NFL retirement system and it's lack of adequate pension, health and disability benefits for former NFL players, at a press conference in Washington on June 20, 2011. UPI/Kevin Dietsch
1 of 3 | George Visger, former professional football player, speaks about his brain injury as he speaks out against the current NFL retirement system and it's lack of adequate pension, health and disability benefits for former NFL players, at a press conference in Washington on June 20, 2011. UPI/Kevin Dietsch | License Photo

LOS ANGELES, July 20 (UPI) -- The NFL knew about the ill-effects of concussions for decades but withheld the information from players until last year, 75 former players allege in a lawsuit.

In their suit filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court Tuesday, the former professional players didn't know about the long-term effects of concussions and relied on the league to protect them, CNN reported.

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"For decades, defendants have known that multiple blows to the head can lead to long-term brain injury, including memory loss, dementia, depression and CTE [chronic traumatic encephalopathy] and its related symptoms," the ex-players' lawsuit alleges.

"This action arises from the defendants' failure to warn and protect NFL players such as plaintiffs against the long-term brain injury risks associated with football-related concussions. This action arises because the NFL defendants committed negligence by failing to exercise its duty to enact league-wide guidelines and mandatory rules regulating post-concussion medical treatment and return-to-play standards for players who suffer a concussion and/or multiple concussions."

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Monday night the league had not yet seen the suit but would "vigorously contest any claims of this kind."

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The lawsuit also names football equipment maker Riddell Inc. as a defendant.

"We have not yet review[ed] the complaint, but it is our policy to not comment on pending litigation," the company said in a statement.

The lawsuit didn't mention a specific amount it seeks in damages.

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