Scandrick, Welker Eligible To Play Under New Drug Policy
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) -- NFL Players Association reps have voted to approve a proposed new drug policy from the league, NFL.com reports.
The NFL has not yet verified that the deal has been finalized. ESPN reports that there are still hurdles to clear before the deal is complete.
The new policy will implement HGH testing, raise the threshold for positive marijuana tests, and re-classify amphetamine-positive tests.
The vote is of particular interest to the Cowboys, as cornerback Orlando Scandrick is currently serving a four-game ban after testing positive for amphetamines.
Under the new policy, Scandrick's positive test -- which occurred this offseason -- will not fall under the performance enhancing drug policy. Instead, he will be subject to the substance abuse policy.
As a result, he is expected to be eligible to play when the deal is finalized.
Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker would be available to play as well.
"This is an historic moment for our Players and our League," said NFLPA President Eric Winston said in a statement. "We have collectively bargained drug policies that will keep the game clean and safe, but also provide our players with an unprecedented level of fairness and transparency. Players should be proud of their union for standing up for what was best for the game."
Scandrick's agent, Ron Slavin, argued last month on 105.3 The Fan that his client did not take a PED, but instead a recreational drug. The new policy reflects this.
Scandrick would be subject to a suspension if he tests positive for a banned substance a second time.
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon will have his yearlong suspension reduced to 10 games according to NFL.com -- the standard penalty for a fourth violation.
The NFLPA released a list of important changes to the policy which includes:
-- An Independent Arbitrator will hear appeals for positive test violations of both Substances of Abuse and Performance Enhancing Drug Policies. The NFL and NFLPA will jointly select, approve and pay for retention of 3-5 arbitrators.
-- The threshold for a positive test for marijuana will increase to 35 ng/ml from the previous limit of 15 ng/ml.
-- A two-game suspension will be issued upon conviction or plea agreement for violations of law involving alcohol and driving.
-- During the off-season, a first time positive test for amphetamines without a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) will now be evaluated under the Substances of Abuse Policy. During the season, a positive test without a TUE will continue to be a violation of the Performance Enhancing Drug Policy.
-- Testing for hGH will occur in the 2014 season.
-- The NFL and NFLPA will have the right to retain independent investigators to review cases where player confidentiality as related to the drug policies has been breached.
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