Arguments Begin Today In Appeal Of NFL Concussion Settlement

Oral arguments are scheduled for this afternoon in the appeal of a federal court judge's preliminary approval of the at least $765M settlement of concussion claims brought against the NFL. A group of seven former players, led by Sean Morey, argued to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals that the pending settlement offers them little and should be rejected. The league and lawyers representing the proposed class of ex-players disagree and contend the disenchanted players can opt out of the deal and should not be able to appeal what is only a preliminary deal.

Steven Strauss, who represents the estate of Junior Seau, noted the appeals court instructed the parties to be prepared to argue the case on the merits, meaning today's hearing could have more than just a procedural issue at play.