Former Denver Broncos linebacker Aaron Patrick has reached a confidential settlement with the NFL regarding the serious knee injury he sustained during the 2022 season.
This resolution comes after a legal battle over the incident that ended his career.
Details of the Settlement Remain Confidential
Aaron Patrick’s attorney, William Berman, confirmed the settlement but revealed that the terms remain under strict confidentiality.
He expressed optimism about Patrick’s future in the NFL, stating that his client is eager to return to the sport.
The Injury That Led to the Lawsuit
Patrick’s injury occurred when he attempted to tackle Chargers punt returner DeAndre Carter during a game.
As Patrick’s momentum carried him off the field, he collided with a sideline worker, which was made worse by a black carpet on the sideline that caught his cleat.
The carpet’s presence, which was reportedly used to cover cables for the instant replay monitor, contributed to the injury.
Patrick’s agent, Lamont Smith, had previously criticized the dangerous setup on the sideline, claiming it played a significant role in the injury.
Legal Action Taken Against SoFi Stadium
The lawsuit, filed in California, accused the NFL of negligence for allowing dangerous conditions at SoFi Stadium, where the game took place.
The lawsuit highlighted the presence of the mats covering cords near the sideline, which created a hazard for players.
Patrick’s legal team also argued that the NFL had failed to prioritize safety at the stadium.
Other Notable Injuries and Lawsuits in the NFL
This case is just one of many incidents where players have been injured by hazards off the field.
In 2020, Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram suffered a shoulder and collarbone injury when he collided with a television cart.
Back in 2015, Reggie Bush, then a running back for the San Francisco 49ers, slipped on concrete at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, resulting in a season-ending knee injury.
Bush won a lawsuit against the Rams, who were based in St. Louis at the time, and was awarded $12.45 million in damages.
Financial Impact of Patrick’s Injury
While other players may have had more financial security, Patrick’s situation was different.
As an undrafted free agent with a salary of $825,000 that wasn’t guaranteed, the injury had a much more significant impact on his financial future.
He earned a total of $1.2 million throughout his brief career and has remained unsigned since the injury, making this settlement crucial for his future prospects.