Former NFL Running Back Jim Brown discusses the NFL’s “denial” about concussions at the Aspen Institute.
In what’s being called a “historic agreement,” the NFL and nearly 5,000 former professional football players have reached a $765 million settlement over concussion lawsuits. The Aspen Institute has worked to elevate this much-debated issue at both public and policy programs featuring former NFL players, medical experts, coaches, and executives from the sport.
Read below to find context and insight into this epidemic that affects both professional and amateur—including youth—players:
- Video: “Head Games: Can Football be Saved from Itself?” At the 2012 Aspen Ideas Festival, panelists consider the latest research on concussions, and cutting-edge ideas designed to manage the impact. Speakers include Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program Director Tom Farrey, Stanford University School of Medicine Assistant Professor Dr. Daniel Garza, former NFL player Kevin Turner, Sports Legacy Institute Founder and Co-President Chris Nowinski, and former NFL player Jim Brown.
- Blog post: “What’s the Role of the NFL and its Players in Driving Reform?” This recap and full video features NFL Players Association Executive Director DeMaurice Smith.
- Video: “At What Age Should Children Play Tackle Football?” This moderated conversation includes neurological surgeon Dr. Robert Cantu, USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck, Virginia Tech bioengineering graduate student Ray Daniel, and Children’s National Medical Center Pediatric Neuropsychology Division Chief Gerard Gioia, among others.
