Earlier in the week it was believed the NFL Players Association was nearing the approval of a newly proposed drug policy they negotiated with NFL representatives. That policy was rejected, but a new one could be approved by Friday.
According to sources, the NFL and the Players Association are in the process of finalizing a new drug agreement that is similar to the one that was rumored to be in place earlier in the week. The provisions include human growth hormone (HGH) testing as well as drastic changes to the marijuana policy that could reduce the current suspensions of players serving punishments.
Both sides, NFL and NFLPA, hoping to finalize a new drug policy tonight in which suspensions will wind up being overturned.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 11, 2014
The notable names include Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon (serving a yearlong suspension), Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker (serving a four-game suspension) and Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (serving a four-game suspension). If the new policy is approved on Friday, Welker and Scandrick will likely be absolved of their punishments while Gordon will have his reduced to six to 10 games.
A vote could have taken place tonight, but the Ravens and Steelers were scheduled to play on Thursday Night Football. Also, some litigation talks may still be ongoing as the policy remains in its finalizing stages. Other provisions of the proposed policy include: (1) neutral arbitration for HGH testing; (2) a first positive marijuana test will warrant participation in a one-year drug program rather than a career-long one and; (3) a positive amphetamine test in the offseason would fall under the substance-abuse policy while those during the season would fall under the performance-enhancing drug policy.
If the vote takes place tomorrow and the policy is passed, we could see the previously mentioned players in action sooner than expected. And the Browns would be thrilled if they could get Gordon back for at least a portion of season, and he would be too, because he'll no longer have to work at the Ohio car dealership he took a job at earlier this month. He led the NFL in receiving yards last year.
"If Josh is able to play this week, I'd like to get him out there," said Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan in response to the possibility of Gordon returning, in this ESPN article. "I think he would help."
