Monday’s revelation that NFL players will have blood drawn to conduct a population study regarding the levels of human growth hormone in their bodies is seen as a step toward a testing regimen that will punish those using HGH to enhance their performance on the field.
When such a test will actually be in place remains unclear, but one NFL veteran is all for it. During an appearance on the NFL Network Tuesday, Panthers linebacker Jon Beason said that he was happy to see steps being taken toward the test because it would help ensure that all players in the league are on equal footing.
“For me, I’m happy. I don’t take that stuff, so I’m more than happy to do it. The guys who are taking it, now if they get caught it’s an even playing field,” Beason said. “It’s already hard enough to make it to the league, stay in the league and stay healthy in the league…I think it’s a good thing, so I’m looking forward to it an more than willing to comply with whatever the league and NFLPA comes up with.”
Beason’s opnion is exactly the one that you’d expect to hear from a player who isn’t using HGH. If there are enough players with the same viewpoint, they can push the union to move quickly toward a testing policy that creates the even playing field that Beason wants. The flip side of players less willing to subject themselves to testing and discipline is true as well, of course, and the pace that talks take from here could let us know which side is able to exert more influence.