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There were such high hopes among those of us involved in the discussions that led to the reorganization of NFL Alumni as an entity that would speak for � and stand for � retired players. From 1976 through most of 2009 � during various labor actions, CBA negotiations, pension and disability discussions � NFL Alumni had been largely silent on former players� issues, focusing instead on supporting children�s charities in chapter cities.

With the new structure and focus of the revamped alumni group, we believed there would finally be an organization of retired players, forretired players, by retired players. NFLAA would speak up on behalf of teammates, advocate for and represent their interests, and develop a stream of income to ensure the NFLAA�s independence. That was our vision � and that was our hope.  

In fact, in an interview in March, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell noted that the league had provided loans to the NFLAA to help the organization get off the ground, generate income to become self-funded, and develop into an independent former players� organization. Having been involved in expanding the mission � and having participated in the process that selected the executive director � I�m deeply disappointed. I thought we had our man.

Instead � despite the generous resources provided by the league, including the use of the NFL shield as part of the NFLAA�s logo � the association became mired in financial difficulties, seemed to lack direction and appeared focused on hosting golf tournaments rather than addressing disability, pension and other significant issues that impact retired players.

In effect, although the scouting report had been prepared and a winning game plan had been put into place, the execution failed.

In life as in football, sometimes it�s necessary to change the quarterback. Sometimes a player is better suited for another position. Perhaps this was the wrong fit for George Martin.

By last summer � despite a directive from the NFLAA board of directorsto represent former players and to advocate for improved pension benefits and disability system reform during the CBA negotiations � George was unable to garner the necessary access to decision-makers or leverage his position as NFLAA executive director to ensure that these issues were on the table. In fact, he appeared to be deemed irrelevant to the discussions and negotiations, his role reduced to hosting or appearing at a press conference or two. Neither the executive director nor the board of directors could � or would � get it done.

Former NFL players deserve better.

FoxSports.com reported that the NFLAA is considering returning to a singular mission of supporting youth charities. At a time when the long-term effects of football injuries are becoming more and more clear, at a time when those who built the league and the union most need a seat at the table, at a time when the NFLPA has a laser focus on active players, it seems incomprehensible that NFLAA would abandon its mission of acting on behalf of former players. Such a move would not only be disappointing, it would also be disastrous for NFL retirees.

Football is a team sport and no one player stands alone. I urge the NFLAA to � finally � stand with retired players.

Bruce Laird
President, Fourth & Goal
Baltimore Colts, 1972-1981
San Diego Chargers, 1982-1983