One of the big changes coming to the NFL as a result of the new collective bargaining agreement, or CBA, is the elimination of game suspensions to players who test positive for marijuana.
It’s a big concession from owners to players, who have consistently advocated for increased access to marijuana as an alternative to opioid pain medications. As many states have decriminalized recreational marijuana, the move makes sense for the NFL.
The new CBA also dramatically shortens the testing period in the offseason, from four months to just two weeks. It does not eliminate possible suspensions for things like arrests for possession or testing positive while also being guilty of a legal issue. It does not address other recreational drugs including cocaine, molly/ecstasy or any performance-enhancing drugs.
From the NFLPA fact sheet distributed to players following the vote:
Changes to Drug Policy
- Narrows the testing window of THC from four months to two weeks at the start of training camp
- Reduces the penalties to players who test positive for THC, eliminating any game suspensions strictly for positive tests
- Reduces the number of players subjected to testing for THC
- Increases the nanogram limit from 35 to 150
Marijuana remains illegal to possess in Ohio other than for prescribed medicinal purposes.
