Cleveland: Former Wolverines Players File Lawsuit Against NCAA

In a significant move, former Cleveland Browns and University of Michigan wide receiver Braylon Edwards is part of a group of four former UM players who have filed a joint $50 million class-action lawsuit against the NCAA and the Big Ten Network. The lawsuit stems from claims that these athletes were “unlawfully denied” the chance to earn money from their own name, image, and likeness while in college football.

The 73-page lawsuit was filed on Tuesday morning in the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan. Joining Edwards in the suit are former Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson, linebacker Shawn Crable, and defensive end Mike Martin. The lawsuit is spearheaded by attorney Jim Acho, who clarified that the action is not against the University of Michigan, stating, “This is the NCAA that perpetuated this wrong for decades.”

Previously, the NCAA had rules prohibiting college athletes from profiting off their name and likeness, but these rules were changed in 2021. The NCAA recently agreed to a $2.78 billion settlement that covers over 400,000 current and former college athletes, but it only applies to those who participated in college sports after 2016. This omission has sparked the latest lawsuit representing players from earlier years.

Edwards, who played at Michigan from 2001 to 2004, enjoyed a fruitful NFL career, notably being drafted by the Cleveland Browns as the third overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft. His remarkable performance in 2007, which included 80 receptions for 1,289 yards and 16 touchdowns, earned him All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors.

Robinson, who set the NCAA record for most rushing yards by a quarterback, pointed out that he has not received compensation for being featured as the cover athlete of EA Sports’ NCAA Football 14 game. “It’s important to stand up for what’s right and what we deserve,” Robinson shared.

Martin, a former captain for Michigan, echoed those sentiments, stating, “The recently settled amount made me think—what about all the players before 2016?” All four players highlighted a need for accountability and correction of past injustices against athletes who helped build the NCAA’s massive revenue.

As this lawsuit progresses, it represents a critical look back on how college athletes were treated in terms of their rights and financial opportunities. It is a moment that could redefine the landscape for former players seeking recognition and compensation for their contributions to college sports.