NFL linebacker Randy Gregory is suing the league and the Denver Broncos, alleging discrimination over fines totaling $532,500. Gregory was fined for reportedly taking medication containing THC during his time with the Broncos, despite being prescribed the medication for social anxiety and PTSD. The lawsuit argues that denying him the prescribed medicine is discriminatory under Colorado law. While the NFL has made changes to its policies on THC in recent years, players who test positive still face fines under the banned substances list.
Teams do not have a role in fining players for violating the NFL’s substance policies, as the NFL-NFLPA substance abuse policy is collectively bargained and administered by a third-party medical professional. Gregory was diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and PTSD, and his requests to use dronabinol during nonwork hours and for a therapeutic use exemption were denied by the Broncos and the NFL. Gregory was selected in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft and has recorded 22 sacks over his seven NFL seasons, with multiple suspensions while with the Dallas Cowboys for violating drug policies.
The Broncos have not publicly commented on the lawsuit, declining to comment when contacted by The Associated Press. Gregory’s lawsuit comes after being traded to the San Francisco 49ers following appearances in six games in 2022 and four games in 2023 with the Broncos. He signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in April. The complaint against the NFL and the Broncos for discrimination over the fine for taking THC-containing medication prescribed for social anxiety and PTSD highlights the ongoing challenges faced by players navigating the league’s substance policies.
Despite changes in the NFL’s policies regarding THC and suspensions for positive tests, THC remains on the banned substances list, leaving players open to fines. The lawsuit raises questions about the rights of players to receive medical treatment for mental health conditions and how teams and the league address these issues. The denial of Gregory’s prescribed medication and exemption requests sheds light on the complexities of navigating the league’s substance policies and the impact on players’ health and well-being. Gregory’s case underscores the ongoing need for transparency and fairness in the NFL’s approach to substance abuse and mental health support for players.
