The Saga Continues!!!
Yep, now it is the players turn to pay for Bountygate. I know lots of fans think that the punishments were too harsh. I disagree, because the game of professional football is getting dangerously close to having massive lawsuits, and not just by the former players.
Let’s take a look at what could happen. The first scenario is that former players are going to be suing like crazy. It seems that those that willing participated in the game would not have a chance, but history tells a different story. If you don’t believe me, ask the tobacco companies. Now, the (smokers) plaintiff’s lawyers argured successfully, that the tobacco industry misled smokers and, therefore, they are liable for damages. That logic carried the day, along with some inside info on the tobacco companies themselves.
Now look at the former players’ position. They are saying that the league knew of violence being used on purpose and did nothing to stop it until recently. Additionally, the equipment used was not up-to-date and, therefore, more injuries occurred than was necessary. I will bet you that there are memos in the NFL’s files that say something that could bring the league down several pegs.
Now, let’s go further. A mom sues becasue her high school son was severally injured by another team’s “hit” squad. She argues that they were just impersonating the NFL. Roll in the wheelchair bound boy and see what the juries do. Mucho trouble ahead for the NFL.
Additionally, we are starting to see that the overwhelming positive NFL public and private opinion starting to move negatively against the NFL. To start with, there are some great NFL players from the past that are saying that they would encourage their sons, if they have any, not to play football. This includes Troy Aikman and Curt Warner.
Another not so good news is the story of another QB, Steve Young, formerly of the 49er’s who quit football over a decade ago because his Doctors told him that another concussion could be very harmful to him. That was over 10 years ago. How can anyone argue that concussions were not a problem back then? No one did anything about them officially in the NFL until recently.
So from this blogger’s perspective, I think the Commissioner must do everything he can to protect the game and the league itself. The mystic of the NFL has not been challenged like this, since instant TV replay was invented and made the game a nearly perfect one for the home viewer.
Go Bears!!!!








