Former Broncos offensive lineman Ben Hamilton is one of seven former players who are objecting to the proposed settlement of the concussion lawsuit against the NFL. But he says its not about the money.
Instead, Hamilton says his objection to the settlement stems from a belief that more information needs to be collected about all of the potential ramifications of brain injuries on the football field.
“It’s not necessarily an adequate settlement in that they’re not recognizing these other effects of traumatic brain injuries,” Hamilton told the Denver Post. “It’s complicated stuff when you’re talking about the brain. People learn a little bit more about it every day. These seven people are not going for a money grab. It’s more about awareness, identifying some of the affects from concussions that’s just not about the debilitating stuff.”
Hamilton says he suffers from issues including memory loss, difficulty sleeping, irritability and moodiness. But he is doing well enough that he is able to work as a high school math teacher.
If Judge Anita Brody accepts the proposed settlement, players will still have the right to opt out and pursue their own claims against the NFL. That is what Hamilton plans to do, even if most players accept the settlement.