A class action law suit made up of around 6,000 veteran American football players has been filed against EA. The suit alleges the unauthorised use of the likenesses of the players in Madden NFL 09, specifically those of the game's historic teams, and describes EA's actions as "calculated and underhanded".
"Compensation is sought against EA for the unauthorized use of the likenesses of retired NFL football players," reads the suit, a PDF of which can be found here. The suit adds that "characteristics were consistently identical or so close to the living player's characteristics that the consumers of the game could readily discern what character was being represented... The changes reflect a calculated and underhanded attempt to avoid having to pay any license or royalty."
Naturally, EA refused comment to IGN, as litigation is pending.