The NFL has long avoided claims showing a link between brain injuries and its physical play on the field, but that tactic may not work any longer.

According to the Associated Press, Commissioner Roger Goodell testified to a Congressional committee earlier today, trying hard to stay away from any admission that indicated as much, and defended the league’s approach in investigating the issue.

Goodell’s remarks were met with derision by several key members present at the hearing, with Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) even going so far as to threaten the removal of the league’s anti-trust exemption:

“We’ve heard from the NFL time and time again — you’re always ’studying,’ you’re always ‘trying,’ you’re ‘hopeful.’ I want to know what are you doing … to deal with this problem and other problems related to injuries.” - Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA)

Much of the discourse has centered on helmet-to-helmet contact and as such, the committee recognized scientists from Boston College who displayed results from their studies indicating a clear link between the sport and brain injuries.The members also listened to a passionate plea from Dick Benson, who lost his son to a brain injury suffered during a high school game in Texas:

“My one request is don’t let it happen again.” - Dick Benson, Foundation for Sports Safety

Several former players testified at the hearing, along with the Players’ Association President DeMaurice Smith. While the remarks from the players shied away from comdemning the league outright, they did state that the NFL has much more work to do on the issue.

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