“Race,” Racism, and Race Norming in the National Football League Concussion Settlement

This article analyzes the administration of “race” and race norming in the National Football League (NFL) Concussion Settlement. It examines the use of the race-based algorithm, its consequences, and its unresolved future. I argue that despite the NFL’s pledge of “race neutral” tests, the race-norming scandal remains far from resolved. Modifications to previous protocols and provisions to develop new norms flag the NFL’s obsession with population-based adjustments. While the explicit utilization of “race” might currently be eliminated, other variables may still produce racialized scores and negatively affect compensation levels. I argue that the NFL’s persistent conviction that there is a biological or cultural basis of “race” propels them to compulsively pursue norming methods. However, until the concept of “race” is thoroughly abandoned and the faith in racial difference whether based in biology/genetics and/or cultural/social circumstances rejected outright, the settlement will continue to be plagued by unjust results.