The problem I always have with these cases is that it completely dismisses any potential liability to the NCAA, high school, or playground leagues. These guys have played football their entire lives, why is the NFL solely at fault?
You make a good point, but it loses strength if the evidence shows most damage occurs during pro careers. I don't know if that's actually the case - I'm just pointing out that should be a relevant factor.
Second, playground leagues and high schools aren't making the money the NFL does. The difference in money is like the difference between me and Bill Gates. Greater, even. I wouldn't be opposed to the collegiate system chipping in commensurate with the money a particular program makes from football. But I say the ones making real money off this sport should be the ones paying the expenses.