The rift between retired and current NFL players has been well documented.  The past NFLPA Director (may God rest his soul) did little to mend the fences.  Many knowledgable individuals might say that he added to the distrust and animosity.

Factor in the $28 million dollar judgment that retired players have sitting unpaid on the table.  This judgment was awarded after the retired players prevailed in a lawsuit against the NFLPA related to revenues derived or lost on various merchandising deals and video games.  The unpaid aspect does not sit too well with the elder retired players.

As D. Smith, the newly elected Director of the NFLPA, makes his rounds organizing the troops, he must face the inherited issues related to retirees.  To be most effective, he clearly desires the support of all players both active and retired. Retired players should consider a truce while the new director gets established.  They may also be well served by judging Mr. Smith on his own merit and not tarnishing him with the misplaced ill will generated by his predecessor  

Mr. Smith must soon face-off with the owners in an enormous battle over a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) or face a potential lock out.

Welcome to the league Mr. Smith.