The recent announcement that the NFL and NFLPA are taking additional steps to address retired players’ issues is encouraging news. Fourth & Goal’s advocacy efforts – which began in earnest nearly five years ago, when the Baltimore Colts’ alumni pressed the union for help for our teammate John Mackey, and which have grown to a 2,000-strong national advocacy and fundraising organization for retired players – played an integral role in spurring the league and the union to action. Still, there is a long way to go.
Two recent messages are stark reminders of the urgency of the situation. Buddy Dial’s obituary detailed the decades-long infirmities he faced due to injuries he suffered during his NFL career. And Sandra Unitas’ message touched on the physical challenges faced by her husband John as the result of his Hall of Fame career.
Martin Luther King once said, “A right delayed is a right denied.” The just-announced measures come too late for John Unitas, Buddy Dial and hundreds of our teammates whose lives have been shortened – whose quality of life has been diminished – simply because they played in the NFL. Thus, Fourth & Goal is committed to continuing to advocate and negotiate until retired players have representation and equity. We appreciate your support.
Regards,
Bruce Laird
President, Fourth & Goal
Baltimore Colts, 1972-1981
San Diego Chargers, 1982-1983
