WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court turned away an appeal from three former NFL players who challenged a $42 million settlement between the league and nearly 25,000 former players over the NFL's use of player images in film footage.

The justices on Monday let stand an appeals court ruling that said a federal judge did not abuse his discretion in approving the settlement.

The players complained that the financial payout would go to a fund organized for the benefit of players instead of directly to players.

The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the 2013 settlement was fair and offered benefits to all former players. Payments to a trust will help retired players with medical expenses, housing and career transition. A licensing agency will ensure compensation for use of player identities.