Licensed in California and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California.
From NFL Linebacker to Trusted Workers’ Compensation Advocate
Orlando B. Ruff brings a perspective to workers’ compensation law that few attorneys can match. As a former NFL linebacker who spent seven seasons with the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, and Cleveland Browns, he experienced firsthand the physical demands, cumulative trauma injuries, and lasting consequences of a professional athletic career. Today, he leverages that experience as a California workers’ compensation attorney dedicated to helping retired professional athletes and injured workers secure the benefits and medical care they deserve.
Practice Areas
Mr. Ruff focuses on representing:
- Retired professional athletes pursuing California workers’ compensation benefits
- Injured workers in contested workers’ compensation claims
- Clients facing cumulative trauma injuries and orthopedic injury cases
- Individuals seeking permanent disability benefits
- Cases involving jurisdictional disputes and multi-state employment issues
Representing Professional Athletes
Mr. Ruff represents former NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and other professional athletes in complex California workers’ compensation matters. His background as both a professional athlete and attorney enables him to understand not only the legal issues involved, but also the realities of competing at the highest level and living with the long-term effects of sports-related injuries.
He regularly assists with professional athlete workers’ comp matters, including NFL injury claims involving cumulative trauma, orthopedic conditions, and other injuries that may emerge years after a playing career ends. That dual perspective strengthens his ability to develop compelling claims, communicate clients’ experiences effectively, and advocate for the full benefits available under California law.
Leadership and Advocacy
Long before entering the legal profession, Mr. Ruff demonstrated a commitment to serving fellow athletes as Vice President of the Los Angeles NFLPA Retired Players Chapter. In that role, he worked closely with retired players and gained valuable insight into the challenges they face after their playing careers end.
He continues that mission through his legal practice, guiding former athletes through the workers’ compensation system and helping them pursue meaningful outcomes.
Representing Injured Workers Across California
In addition to representing professional athletes, Mr. Ruff advocates for injured workers throughout California before the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.
Clients turn to him for:
- Meticulous case preparation
- Strategic advocacy
- Thorough knowledge of California workers’ compensation law
- Experience handling matters before the workers’ compensation Appeals Board
- A steadfast commitment to protecting their rights and interests
A Rare Combination of Experience and Legal Skill
Mr. Ruff’s credibility is rooted in more than legal training. He has stood in his clients’ shoes, experienced the physical toll of injury, and understands the uncertainty that can follow when a career is interrupted or ends.
By combining real-world experience with focused workers’ compensation advocacy, he provides clients with informed representation and a dedicated ally in their pursuit of benefits, treatment, and long-term security.