A federal judge has given final approval to a $50 million settlement in a fight over publicity rights for retired NFL players.

U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson issued his order Friday.

The lawsuit was filed in 2009 by former players who accused the NFL of exploiting the identities of retired players in highlight films and memorabilia. The NFL and the retired players reached the agreement in March.

More than 25,000 players wanted the settlement approved. Magnuson wrote Friday that a handful of former players who objected because they are receiving no personal benefit have strayed from the initial goal of helping the less fortunate.

Under the settlement, some $42 million will be distributed to a "common good" trust over eight years to help retired players.