21 former players sue NFL over concussions

[December 23, 2011]  MIAMI (AP) -- Nearly two-dozen former NFL players are suing the league over severe and permanent brain damage they say is linked to concussions suffered on the job.

The complaint follows a similar one filed earlier this week in Atlanta. It is the latest in a series of lawsuits filed against the NFL in recent months by past players.

The lawsuit was filed Thursday in Miami on behalf of ex-Miami Dolphins team members Patrick Surtain, Oronde Gadsden and 19 other NFL players. Most now live in Florida. It accuses the National Football League of deliberately omitting or concealing evidence linking concussions and long-term neurological problems.

The NFL denies the charges and says player safety has long been a priority.

The former players are seeking a jury trial and unspecified damages.

[Associated Press]

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