Tim Wigmore
Updated on: October 10, 2024 12:45 am GMT
Former Michigan Football Stars File $50 Million Class Action Lawsuit Against NCAA and Big Ten Network
Four former Michigan football players, including notable alumni Braylon Edwards and Denard Robinson, have initiated a class-action lawsuit against the NCAA and the Big Ten Network, demanding over $50 million in damages. The complaint, filed on Tuesday morning in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, alleges the athletes were unlawfully denied the opportunity to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This legal action underscores a growing movement among former college athletes seeking compensation for past exploitation.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit claims that the NCAA and Big Ten Network used the public personas of these athletes without consent or financial compensation. Specifically, the suit is directed at college football players who competed before June 15, 2016. The players argue they are entitled to a share of the revenue generated from the use of their image and likeness, which the NCAA and affiliates have monetized through advertisements, broadcasts, and merchandise sales.
Key Figures Involved
- Denard Robinson: A former quarterback known for his record-setting performance and presence on the cover of the EA Sports NCAA Football 14 video game.
- Braylon Edwards: A standout wide receiver and winner of the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver.
- Mike Martin: A defensive lineman who served as team captain during the 2011 season.
- Shawn Crable: A linebacker honored as a second-team All-Big Ten selection in his senior year.
Background of NIL Legislation
In July 2021, NIL rights were formally recognized, allowing collegiate athletes to profit from their likenesses. This change followed years of advocacy aimed at compensating players who helped generate significant revenue for their schools and the NCAA. Prior to this, athletes were largely prohibited from earning any income linked to their athletic performance or personal brand.
Class Action Nature of the Lawsuit
The class-action lawsuit, represented by attorney Jim Acho, aims to encompass any former Michigan football players subjected to similar exploitation. According to Acho, this case is unprecedented in its scope involving former college football athletes. He stressed that the lawsuit is aimed at correcting historical injustices rather than targeting the University of Michigan itself.
The Claims
The complaint outlines that the NCAA, working alongside the Big Ten Network and other affiliates, systematically profited from the performances and images of these athletes without compensation. Examples noted include broadcast rights to classic Michigan games and merchandise sales that feature these players’ contributions. The lawsuit demands not only monetary compensation but also seeks measures to prevent future exploitation of athletes’ rights.
Comparisons to Previous Legal Settlements
This suit follows other significant legal actions targeting the NCAA. Recently, a settlement was reached involving a $2.8 billion payout for current and former athletes who were similarly denied NIL earnings. Athletes who entered the college sports realm after June 15, 2016, are eligible for this compensation, leading to questions about the rights of those who played before this date.
Legal Implications and Future Actions
The legal landscape has shifted considerably regarding athlete compensation, and this case could set a precedent for other former college athletes pursuing similar claims. As the lawsuit unfolds, federal judge Terrence Berg has been assigned to the case, with the potential implications extending beyond Michigan football, possibly influencing collegiate sports nationwide.
The Path Ahead
As awareness of NIL rights continues to grow, legal representatives like Acho anticipate that this case will inspire other former athletes from various sports programs to seek redress for unauthorized use of their names and images. By highlighting the systemic issues within the NCAA framework, this lawsuit emphasizes the ongoing need for reform in college athletics to protect the rights of all student-athletes.
The NCAA and the Big Ten Network haven’t said anything about the lawsuit yet. At the same time, people are still talking a lot about how college athletes should get paid and have rights.
