The threshold on drug use has been raised
The talks and negotiations have finally come to a close between the NFL and NFLPA concerning a revamped drug policy and now players are being notified that they can return to their teams as early as tomorrow. The news will be formally announced Wednesday morning, but those reinstated will be eligible to play this Sunday.
The new policy includes more lenient standards over marijuana testing and off-season amphetamine use, as well as blood testing for HGH (something players had been resisting for a while) and a 2-game suspension for DUI convictions. More importantly, the retroactive clause in the new agreement will allow players to have their punishments adjusted and eradicated under the new policy rules.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker, Cowboys defensive back Orlando Scandrick and Rams wide receiver Stedman Bailey will be allowed to play this week, while Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon will have his one-year ban lifted and decreased to 10 games. Since the Browns have already played two games this season, he only has to serve an eight game suspension to be eligible to play.
About a dozen players will be impacted by the new drug policy.
NFL’s new policy on PED’s
Testing for HGH
Third-party arbitration for appeals
Up to 6-game bans for 1st violation:
– 2 games for masking agents
– 4 for steroid, stimulant or HGH
– 6 for trying to manipulate test results10-game ban for 2nd offense
Minimum 2-year ban for 3rd violation
[Source]