NFL rejects 'any suggestion of improper influence' in CTE research

In the wake of a congressional report that concluded the NFL attempted to influence a research study linking football to degenerative brain disease, the league has denied any wrongdoing.

"We are reviewing the (Congressional) report but categorically reject any suggestion of improper influence," NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy told Pro Football Talk Monday.

The league's staunch denial comes after the NFLPA rallied around the report, citing it as an example of the NFL's indifferent attitude toward player safety.

"This is why the NFLPA refused to be apart of any study with the NFL," NFLPA president Eric Wisnton tweeted. "They cannot be trusted to do the right thing when it involves players."

Winston's anger was echoed by Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin, who focused his ire on commissioner Roger Goodell.

That sentiment reverberated throughout the league Monday, with the NFLPA's executive director DeMaurice Smith weighing in as well.