Former UK player files concussion lawsuit

CHICAGO (WTVQ) – A former football player at the University of Kentucky is part of the latest round of class-action concussion lawsuits filed against the NCAA and major college conferences.

Former UK wide receiver DeMoreo Ford is suing the NCAA and Southeastern Conference.

The lawsuits were filed in federal courts on Wednesday by Chicago-based lawyer Jay Edelson.

According to the lawsuit obtained by ABC 36 News, “Ford recalls suffering concussions during both games and practices, after the diagnosis of which he was often told to return to play. For instance, Ford specifically recalls suffering a concussion during a game against Florida in 2007 during the second quarter. During the half-time break Ford began vomiting. Despite the concussion and the severity of Ford’s symptoms, he was put back into play after the half-time break.”

The lawsuit goes on to say that “Ford now suffers from severe headaches, depression, mood swings, and other debilitating issues.”

After suffering multiple concussions during the 2008 season, Ford gave up football.

Other lawsuits filed Wednesday included one by former Louisville linebacker Willie Johnson and by former Murray State fullback James Harrison.