The NFL is under a spotlight as their controversial drug policy comes under fire from several directions. Proponents on both sides of the marijuana debate want to see changes in the leagues policy, saying the policy is outdated. Meanwhile, there is an outcry over the suspension of Robert Mathis who claims he only took a banned substance as a fertility drug.
The use of marijuana among NFL players has been under much debate recently, not only because of the question of its legality, but because of its status as a banned substance (via Fox Sports):
"... The source noted that the NFL's policy on marijuana is outdated, citing that the World Anti-Doping Agency - which has been adopted by nearly 600 sports organizations - has a higher threshold than the NFL's current testing system.
"Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon could face a one-year suspension, reportedly after being accused of testing positive for marijuana. While a new drug policy wouldn't affect Gordon's pending suspension, it could significantly alter the discipline process and potentially reduce future punishments for players."
Commissioner Roger Godell apparently has final say over punishments and penalties for violation of the drug policy.
Because of this wiggle room many people are outraged that the suspension of linebacker Robert Mathis will stand, despite his claims and frankly a lot of evidence that he only did it to help conceive another child.
Dr. Steven Morganstern vouched for Mathis's intentions (via ABC News):
"'Robert was using it, he had an increased sperm count, his wife got pregnant and he was off it.'
"Mathis has said that he specifically asked the doctor if the medication would present a problem for NFL drug testing, but Morganstern denies that he gave Mathis any such assurance.
"'That would not be something I would know,' Morganstern told ABC News.
"But Morganstern believes the differing accounts are not important.
"'He is an upstanding man. The whole situation was honorable.'"
What do you think? Should Mathis get a break? Did he truly just make a mistake?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
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