MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Thousands of retired NFL players have opted out of a $50 million class-action settlement in a case that accused the league of using their names and images without their consent.
In papers filed Friday, supporters of the settlement noted that more than 25,000 players — or more than 90 percent of the settlement class — chose to participate. Meanwhile, 2,140 players — less than 8 percent — asked to be excluded.
Eighteen players filed timely objections, and can argue against the settlement at a hearing later this month.
The lawsuit accused the NFL of exploiting the publicity rights of retired players. The settlement, reached in April, calls for the NFL to pay $42 million toward a trust to help retired players with issues like medical expenses.
