Ex-NFL players lose bid to disrupt concussion deal

PHILADELPHIA (AP) Seven former NFL players hoping to intervene in a proposed settlement of concussion claims have lost their federal court appeal.

The 3rd U.S. Circuit ruling Thursday comes just a day after the appeal was argued in Philadelphia.

The NFL would pay at least $765 million under the settlement to men diagnosed with moderate to severe cognitive problems they link to league concussions.

Senior U.S. District Judge Anita Brody has granted preliminary approval of the plan.

However, the seven former players object, calling it a ''lousy deal'' for athletes with symptoms that don't qualify for awards.

They can still raise their objections at a court ''fairness hearing'' on the settlement in November, or file separate lawsuits.

The group includes 2008 Pro Bowl player Sean Morey, now Princeton University's sprint football coach.