Judge upholds award to retirees

A federal judge has upheld a jury award of $28.1 million to retired football players who sued the NFL Players’ Assn. for allegedly failing to properly market their images.

The judge said Tuesday there was sufficient evidence presented at trial in November that the union actively sought to cut out the retired players from lucrative contracts for the benefit of current players.

The jury said the union owed the retirees $7.1 million in actual damages for failing to include them in lucrative marketing deals with Electronic Arts Inc., the maker of the popular “Madden NFL” video games, and other sponsorship agreements.

The jury also ordered $21 million in punitive damages. Distribution of the money will be determined later.

Pioli to Chiefs

Scott Pioli, who helped build and lead a dynasty in New England, will be introduced today as the Kansas City Chiefs general manager, replacing Carl Peterson.

The fate of Coach Herm Edwards and his staff was not immediately known.

Pioli, 43, who became vice president of player personnel for the Patriots in 2002, inherits a young team coming off a 2-14 season that is about $32 million under the salary cap.

Etc.

Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro safety Troy Polamalu injured a calf before Sunday’s divisional playoff victory over San Diego and will work only lightly during the first couple of days of practice for the AFC championship game. . . . The Houston Texans promoted Frank Bush to defensive coordinator. Bush replaces Richard Smith, who was fired along with two other defensive assistants after the Texans finished 8-8 for the second consecutive season. . . . Denver Broncos center Casey Wiegmann has been added to the AFC roster for the Pro Bowl, earning his first trip game in his 13th NFL season.. . . . Tampa Bay’s Ronde Barber and Davin Joseph were added to the NFC Pro Bowl squad, replacing Green Bay cornerback Charles Woodson and Dallas guard Leonard Davis.