Former NIU running back Akeem Daniel sues FanDuel, DraftKings

A former running back for Northern Illinois University has filed a federal lawsuit against daily fantasy sports companies FanDuel and DraftKings

A former running back for Northern Illinois University has filed a federal lawsuit against daily fantasy sports providers FanDuel and DraftKings, reports the Daily Chronicle.

Akeem Daniels, who played for the Huskies from 2010-14, alleges that the sites used his name and the names of other college players in order to generate revenue. He is seeking over $5 million in damages.

The lawsuit states that the companies put college players “in an unwanted state of fear and concern of the risk of being contacted by speculators who have a financial interest” in the outcomes of games and how players perform. Daniels also alleges that daily fantasy sports can lead to point-shaving and fixing.

The lawsuit lists 15 NIU players in addition to Daniels who have also appeared in games on both sites.

Earlier this month, Washington Redskins wide receiver Pierre Garcon dropped his lawsuit against FanDuel after both sides agreed to a settlement. Garcon’s lawsuit claimed that the company was using the names and images of players without their permission.