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by Ron Snyder, The (Baltimore) Examiner
2007-07-25 07:00:00.0
WASHINGTON -

Former Green Bay Packer Jerry Kramer is willing to give NFL Players Association Executive Director Gene Upshaw the benefit of the doubt when it comes to aiding retired players.

At least for now.

Kramer was among 11 retired players who joined Upshaw and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell Tuesday to discuss improvements for former players dealing with financial problems stemming from medical conditions sustained during their NFL careers.

It marked the first official meeting of a new alliance formed in May.

Assisted living, joint replacement surgeries and cardiovascular care were three areas the alliance pledged to improve. Upshaw said the meeting was the first step toward identifying players in need and bringing the many factions fighting for the same cause together.

"This will be the first time there will be a joint effort one single place to go as it relates to retired players," said Upshaw following the closed-door meeting. "We are now in a position as a group to move forward as one in the alliance."

The meeting represented the latest chapter between the NFL, the NFLPA and former players on how to improve medical benefits for former players.

Many former players, including former Baltimore Colts defensive back Bruce Laird, have criticized Upshaw's handling of the issue. Laird was not invited to participate in the meeting.

However, former players at the meeting view Upshaw more favorably.

Still, several former players acknowledged the issue is far from being resolved.

"This alliance between the NFL, the NFLPA, the Hall of Fame as well as the alumni is a substantial step in the right direction," said former Republican Vice Presidential candidate and Buffalo Bills quarterback Jack Kemp, who headed the AFL Players Association from 1964-69. "There is more that has to be done. We don't want any current player or retired player to think we have solved all the problems today."

Kramer had been one of the more outspoken retirees critical of Upshaw, but is now optimistic Upshaw can improve the NFL's medical benefits for former players.

"I believe we created enough awareness and burs under the saddle to the point that we were noticed," Kramer said. "It appears to me that the new commissioner is working on solving the problem with an open and forthright manner."