Federal judge who oversaw NFL labor cases dies at 96

District of Minnesota officials announced the death. Doty presided over several NFL management-union cases during his nearly four-decade tenure on the federal bench. His 1992 ruling allowed players to pursue individual antitrust claims against the league after earlier decisions had kept free-agency restrictions in place.

He took senior status in 1998 but continued hearing cases until a few months before his death. Before joining the bench, Doty served six years in the Marines and earned a law degree from the University of Minnesota in 1961. He spent 26 years in private practice.

“Judge Doty devoted his life to public service and the law, presiding over NFL-related litigation for many years during his distinguished career.”

District Judge Patrick Schiltz described Doty as a humble man who treated everyone with kindness. Schiltz noted Doty's sense of humor and consistent demeanor. League officials issued a statement expressing condolences to Doty's family, friends and colleagues.