The waiting game for a new NFL drug-testing policy is finally over. Less than a week after the NFLPA player representatives voted to approve the new drug-testing policy, the NFL and NFLPA have hashed out the specifics and so-termed "wide-ranging improvements" to it along with their new performance-enhancing substances policy.
The two sides announced the deal Wednesday, as CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reported they would on Tuesday evening.
A second announcement -- changes to the substance abuse policy that will ultimately affect Josh Gordon's future -- is expected to be forthcoming, but there are some key revisions to the drug-testing policy to go over:
- HGH testing has been implemented immediately for this season. Testing is expected begin by the end of September.
- Any appeal of a positive PED test (including HGH) will go in front of a third-party neutral arbitrator. "Appeals will be processed more expeditiously" under the new policy.
- Retroactive discipline for three specific players -- Wes Welker, Orlando Scandrick and Stedman Bailey -- makes each immediately eligible to return to their respective clubs.
- Discipline for violations of the PED policy (including HGH) will be modified.
- A first violation will be up to six games depending on the nature of the violation:
- A second violation will result in a 10-game suspension.
- A third violation will result in a two-year minimum banishment.
- Testing positive for off-season banned stimulants will not result in a PED suspension; instead, the player will be put into the substance abuse program.
- "In cases involving discipline for violations other than positive tests (for example, a violation of law), the Commissioner will retain his current disciplinary authority."
- - Using diuretics or masking agents will result in a two-game suspension.
- - Using steroids, stimulants, HGH or other banned substances will result in a four-game suspension.
- - Attempting to manipulate a test will result in a six-game suspension.
