Judgement: EA within First Amendment rights to use ex-Rutgers QB image in NCAA Football

A US district court judge has dismissed a case against EA which was brought against the firm by ex-Rutgers University quarterback Ryan Hart. Hart accused EA of using his image in NCAA Football without his expressed permission. The judge said EA was well within its First Amendment rights of free expression, which outweighed Hart's ability to control the use of both his name and likeness. EA's lawyer issued a statement saying she and EA were both pleased with the outcome, which "validates Electronic Arts' rights to create and publish its expressive works." Another lawsuit pending against EA, from Arizona and Cleveland players, is still on the docket, but since both suits were filed for the same reason as Hart's, it looks as though these may end up being dismissed as well. Via Reuters.