A lawsuit filed by 12 former football players against the NFL about its concussion policies claims there was widespread pregame use of an anti-inflammatory drug that could put someone with a head injury at increased risk.
Former Pro Bowl wide receiver Joe Horn is among the plaintiffs named in the complaint, which attorney Christopher Seeger said was filed in federal court in New Jersey on Monday.
It's one of about a half-dozen suits filed against the NFL in recent months by ex-players who say the league did not do enough to protect them from concussions. As in other complaints against the league, the latest criticizes the NFL's original committee on brain injuries and says the league concealed risks of concussions.
"The difference with this case is what we've learned from our players is that they used to administer a drug called Toradol, which is basically a painkiller … even when players didn't have symptoms," Seeger said. "Our experts say that's the worst thing you can do for a brain injury or a concussion."
Seeger said it would be "impossible" to say exactly how much money Horn and the other plaintiffs are seeking.
"We're looking for better medical benefits and compensation," Seeger said.
"Some time back, we contacted the NFL about trying to work this out," he said, but those discussions didn't lead to a settlement.
Asked about the lawsuit, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello wrote in an email, "Any allegation that the NFL intentionally sought to mislead players has no merit. It stands in contrast to the league's actions to better protect players and advance the science and medical understanding of the management and treatment of concussions."
Aiello declined to address specifically the issue of the use of Toradol.
Ex-players sue over painkillers - Sacramento Sports - Kings, 49ers, Raiders, High School Sports | Sacramento Bee
