Compiled and Written By: Todd Stelzel, PackerToddsnEnds
 |
Recently, Mike Freeman, Bleacher Report NFL Lead Writer wrote in an article dated June 30, 2015, that Marijuana use in the NFL is prevalent and pervasive. In the article titled, "Banned, but Bountiful: Marijuana Coveted by NFL Players as Invaluable Painkiller," he clearly outlines why football players in the NFL use the mind altering cannabis, instead of popping pills. Click on the title link above to open a new window and read the article. It is absolutely eye-opening and jaw dropping!!!
In a more recent article, Rob Demovsky, ESPN Staff Writer, reported on July 2, 2015, from Green Bay, Wisconsin, that "The NFL has suspended Green Bay Packers defensive end Datone Jones for one game. The league announced Thursday that Jones will miss the regular-season opener against the Chicago Bears for violating the league's substance abuse policy. It was not immediately known whether Jones failed a drug test or missed a test."
Given the one game consequence handed down by the NFL to Datone Jones, it is more than likely a minor substance abuse related infraction and not about Cocaine, Codeine, Vicodin or PED's. After reading Freeman's article, I learned that the NFL's new drug policy forbids players to use Marijuana, yet for the most part has swept the issue under the rug with only random drug testing (prior to the start of training camp) and implements lenient consequences for smoking pot when compared to the use of other banned narcotic drugs by the NFL.
My thought...Now that the cannabis is out of the "baggie," no sense pretending we don't really know what's happening. In other words, either do away with the policy or tighten up the policy, but don't sweep the policy under the rug. The sooner it becomes less convoluted, the better it will be for all NFL stakeholders.
My thought...Now that the cannabis is out of the "baggie," no sense pretending we don't really know what's happening. In other words, either do away with the policy or tighten up the policy, but don't sweep the policy under the rug. The sooner it becomes less convoluted, the better it will be for all NFL stakeholders.
Todd on Guion regarding getting suspended >>> 2.3 Violations of Law Involving Other Substances of Abuse
ReplyDeleteApart from and in addition to any other provisions of this Policy, Players convicted of
or admitting to a violation of law (including, within the context of a diversionary
program, deferred adjudication, disposition of supervision, or similar arrangement
including but not limited to nolo contendere) relating to use, possession, acquisition,
sale, or distribution of Substances of Abuse other than alcohol, or conspiring to do so,
are subject to appropriate discipline as determined by the Commissioner.
Absent aggravating circumstances, discipline for a first offense will be a suspension
without pay for up to four (4) regular and/or post-season games. If the Commissioner
finds that there were aggravating circumstances, including but not limited to felonious
conduct or serious injury or death of third parties, and/or if the Player has had prior drug
or alcohol-related misconduct, increased discipline may be imposed. Discipline for a
second or subsequent offense, absent aggravating circumstances, will be a suspension
without pay for a minimum of six (6) up to ten (10) regular and/or post-season games.
A Player’s treatment history may be considered by the Commissioner in determining the
appropriate level of discipline.
Mark, After reading the attached substance abuse policy, know that I have a better understanding of the NFL's "progressive discipline system." Thanks for sending the policy. In addition, I thought we had a great discussion with Brian Carriveau about the topic the other day. Finally, know that I enjoy working with you @ Wisconsinsportstalk.net. Have a great day what's left of it! #GoPackGo
ReplyDelete