The NFL's Performance Enhancing Drugs (PED) policy is a comprehensive set of rules jointly developed by the NFL Management Council and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) to prohibit and prevent the use of banned substances that provide an unfair competitive advantage. The policy explicitly bans anabolic steroids, exogenous testosterone, stimulants, human growth hormone (HGH), masking agents, and related substances. It also forbids coaches, trainers, and agents from providing or encouraging the use of these substances
. Key elements of the NFL PED policy include:
- Testing: Players are subject to random and scheduled drug testing, including urine and blood tests, with about 20% of players tested annually for HGH during training camps and throughout the season
- Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs): Players may use certain banned substances for legitimate medical reasons under strict supervision
- Penalties for Violations:
- First offense: Participation in the NFL's drug program; typically a 4- to 6-game suspension without pay for steroid or stimulant use.
- Second offense: 10-game suspension.
- Third offense: Season-long suspension or longer (up to a two-year minimum banishment).
- Additional penalties include fines, loss of bonuses, and potential contract voiding.
- Using masking agents or diuretics results in a 2-game suspension.
- Attempting to manipulate a test results in a 6-game suspension
- Policy Focus: The NFL aims to maintain fairness and integrity in the game by preventing players from gaining an illicit advantage. The policy also addresses health risks associated with PED use, such as heart disease, liver cancer, strokes, and infertility
- Exclusions: Marijuana and alcohol are not covered under the PED policy but fall under a separate recreational drug policy with more lenient penalties, reflecting recent changes in cannabis legalization and its medicinal use
- Recent Updates: The NFL and NFLPA have made modifications to testing procedures, fines, and suspension rules to refine enforcement while balancing player rights and health considerations. For example, suspended players may be reinstated and paid under certain conditions even if they test positive during suspension
In summary, the NFL PED policy is strict and evolving, designed to ensure a level playing field, protect player health, and uphold the integrity of professional football. Violations lead to significant suspensions and fines, underscoring the league's commitment to clean competition
