Mean Gene?

Written on June 12, 2007 – 5:08 am | by Harry Robinson |

A press conference was held yesterday by NFL greats Mike Ditka and Joe Delamiellure introuducing former NFL player, Brian DeMarco. DeMarco has been falling on some hard times since he retired in 2000, due to major injuries received while playing pro football. DeMarco’s injuries from his career has caused him to have a difficult time supporting his family. He and his family have been homeless three times, and his limited physical abilities make it extremely hard for him to find means for providing for his family. All of Demarco’s savings have gone towards paying for his medical bills which leave little, if any, funds for anything else. DeMarco at the tender age of 33 was quoted as saying” My right leg is completely numb. I have extreme nerve pain in my arms. I have lost my grip . . . my ability to hold my kids.” Mike Ditka and JoeDelamiellure have helped establish a program called the Gridiron Greats Fund. Ditka and other ex-NFL greats have blamed union boss, Gene Upshaw, for the lack of medical coverage that has been given to retired football players. Gene Upshaw has been very upset about these allegations coming out.

DeLamiellure was quoted as saying that “He (Gene Upshaw) threatened to break my neck” “. This threat was sent out to DeLamielleure after stating, ” I say that he has stunk as a union leader for 20 years screw Upshaw.” I wonder will NFL President Roger Godell help take care of this as quickly as he put out the new conduct rules.