The NFL and the NFL Players Association announced an agreement on a new, less stringent drug policy, according to a report by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. They released a joint statement Wednesday detailing key revisions.
NFL, NFLPA reach agreement on new drug policy
The NFL and the NFL Players Association finally reached agreement on a less stringent drug policy.
Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Negotiations had been ongoing for some time, and a deal was expected to be reached Tuesday, after player union reps from all 32 teams were scheduled to vote Tuesday night. However, both sides could not agree on DUI punishment, per FOX Sports Mike Garafolo, which lengthened proceedings.
According to NFL.com, the new agreement will ease standards for THC testing (substance found in marijuana), and would also allow for blood tests for human growth hormone for the first time. Check out our full breakdown here of the various differences of the new NFL drug policy. According to the NFL Network’s Albert Breer, the league would like to begin testing for HGH by the end of the month.
Albert Breer also revealed the NFL’s revised marijuana program:
New schedule for sanctions on marijuana: 1) referral; 2) two-game fine; 3) four-game fine; 4) four-game suspension; 5) 10-game suspension.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) September 17, 2014 The league's former drug policy led to the suspensions of high-profile players like Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker and Cleveland Browns wideout Josh Gordon. Fortunately for both teams, and for NFL fans, these receivers will be able to suit up much sooner given that the new drug policy will be retroactively applied.
Welker, as well as Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick and St. Louis Rams wide receiver Stedman Bailey, will be eligible to play Week 3.
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