Now that the cat has emerged from the bag regarding the possibility that a comprehensive new drug policy will benefit players suspended in recent weeks and months under the current rules, look for plenty of players to apply plenty of pressure to the NFLPA to get a deal done, ASAFP.
Last night’s report from the Packers-Seahawks pregame mentioned only Broncos receiver Wes Welker and Browns receiver Josh Gordon, but other players also would experience relief if the new policy applies retroactively on subjects like the shifting of offseason stimulant use to the substance-abuse policy and/or the increase of permissible marijuana metabolite concentration from 15 ng/ml to 150 ng/ml.
Players like Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick and Dolphins defensive end Dion Jordan could suddenly find themselves getting a green light to play on Sunday, if a deal can be worked out today. While it’s unclear whether the appropriate i’s can be dotted and t’s can be crossed in an expedited fashion, real progress had been made toward a new drug policy. If both sides are motivated, a deal can get done.
Multiple sources have made it clear that the NFL is ready to get something done; the Commissioner himself said on the record two days ago that he’s been ready for three years. And while the NFLPA may prefer to try to extract a few more concessions, the involvement of specific players with significant dollars and playing time at stake likely will result in the placement of significant pressure on the union to work things out.