The NFL is accused of hiding what it knew about players’ head injuries. The players’ union is getting second-guessed for not taking safety more seriously. And another judge is getting familiar with all the legal arguments.

Not the way the league wanted to kick off a season.

The debate over concussions and a $765 million settlement with former players is still front-and-center as the defending Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens get ready to open the season in Denver on Thursday night.

Sure, the settlement gives former players immediate help with their medical bills. A drawn-out court fight was avoided. And safety is a bigger concern than ever in the league.

Yet, the back-and-forth goes unabated with so many questions unanswered.

“You can say it’s Pandora’s box that’s been opened,” former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason said on the eve of the season opener, “but they are trying to find solutions. As a former player, I’m thankful they’re doing that.”

More than 4,500 former players had sued the league, accusing it of concealing the long-term dangers of concussions and rushing players back.