Robert Jackson
In an interview with the Grand Rapids Press, former Cincinnati Bengal Robert Jackson became the latest in a list of hundreds to call on current players to improve the benefits of those who played before 1993. Jackson who is about to be inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame said most current players do not realize the financial and physical conditions of the pre-93′s.
“These older players didn’t come anywhere close to making the money the modern-day NFL warriors pocket. They don’t have the financial resources to pay for their assorted medical bills as a result of football-related injuries,” said Jackson.
“And they don’t even enjoy a proper living because they do not receive proper funds through the NFL Players Association union.”
“We didn’t make the $5 million or more a season,” Jackson said. “In 1988, I asked for $1.2 million over three seasons, and the Bengals offered no more than $200,000 a year.
“I’m not jealous of today’s players. I’m happy they can walk (via free agency) and go to another team to make more money and have a better opportunity to win championships. I just wish a lot more of the NFL guys would realize that it was the Dick LeBeaus, Earl Campbells, Kenny Rileys and (Dick) “Night Train” Lanes who sacrificed to allow today’s players to get what they get.
“Don’t forget them. Don’t be selfish, which so many of today’s players are. I know the NFL is a business, but if you’re making $5 million, why can’t you give some of that back through the players union to help those past players who helped them?”
