All Lions

New NFL CBA Makes Changes to Drug Policy

Read what changes were made to the NFL's drug policy under the new CBA

John Maakaron

The NFLPA narrowly approved the new collective bargaining agreement, meaning there will be no work stoppage in the NFL for the next decade. 

The vote was razor-thin, as the agreement only passed by 60 votes -- 1,019 to 959.

As a result of the approval, the NFL has now secured 10 years of labor peace, the regular season has been expanded to 17 games and the playoff field has been increased from 12 to 14 teams. 

Another change to the CBA involves the NFL's drug policy. 

The new CBA eliminates suspensions for positive marijuana tests. 

The testing period has been limited to the first two weeks of training camp, and the threshold for a positive test has been raised from 35 to 150 nanograms of THC.

And the punishment for DUIs has been increased to a three-game suspension. 

In regards to performance-enhancing drugs:

  • A first failed test for stimulants or diuretics will result in a two-game suspension. 
  • A first failed test for anabolic steroids will result in a six-game suspension.
  • Manipulation and or substitution and use of a prohibited substance will result in an eight-game suspension.
  • A second violation for stimulants or diuretics results in a five-game suspension.
  • A second violation for anabolics will result in a 17-game suspension.

According to NFL insider Dan Graziano of ESPN, "The idea is to focus the drug program on clinical care as opposed to punishment. Basically, if you test positive, your test gets reviewed by a board of jointly appointed medical professionals to determine whether you need any kind of treatment. The NFLPA deal memo also says that violations of law for marijuana possession generally will not result in suspension."

Related

Free Agency: Detroit Lions Simply Have Too Many Needs

NT Danny Shelton Could Be Under-the-Radar Target for Lions

Ranking the 5 Best Free Agents Lions Could Target

Barry Sanders Bets on Lions to Win Lombardi Trophy

Who's the Lions Dream Free Agent?

Published
John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!

Home/News