The NFL appears to be closer than ever to implementing testing for HGH. Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson thinks that's a good thing because he apparently knows plenty of NFL players that use the substance, according to Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com.
Adrian Peterson says NFL players are using HGH
The reigning NFL MVP will be happy to see testing implemented.
USA TODAY Sports
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“You’ve got HGH, something that doesn’t show up on a test, and you’ve got guys out there trying to provide for their families,” Peterson said. “They’re going to try to get that edge, get that advantage, especially if they’re not worried about trying to get caught. Yeah, it’s being used.”
The NFL and the NFL Players Association agreed Monday to a population study to determine what levels of HGH in players should be considered normal. Players will take blood tests during preseason training camps in order to provide the relevant data. The agreement was the first major step toward reaching a deal on league-wide HGH testing and discipline, which could be implemented as soon as next season.
Peterson suffered a devastating knee injury during the 2011 season and many wondered if he’d be able to return at a high level. He silenced doubters by rushing for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns in the regular season while averaging 6.0 yards per carry, though, eventually being named the NFL’s MVP.
Athletes testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs is no longer front-page news, but many were still skeptical of Peterson’s comeback. Returning to have such a strong season after significant injury seemed nearly impossible so the assumption was that Peterson had a little extra help. The running back says he’s clean, though, and looks forward to HGH testing weeding out those who aren’t.
“I work hard. This right here, it’s a test for me personally that I know that, ‘Hey, I’m clean as a whistle,’ and other guys as well. And then, like I say, it’ll bring some guys to the forefront and be like, ‘Hey, I guess this is how this guy’s been performing so well.’”
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