Laremy Tunsil won’t be placed in NFL substance abuse program

Miami Dolphins first-round draft pick Laremy Tunsil won’t start off his pro career as a member of the league’s substance abuse program according to sources.

It was the story that dominated the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft and the days that followed. Laremy Tunsil, the star offensive tackle projected to be a top-five pick, had a video posted on his social media account showing him smoking something out of a bong attached to a gas mask.

The video was released just minutes before the first round began (Tunsil claimed his account was hacked) and, according to many, caused his stock to drop down to the 13th pick in the draft, where he was selected by the Miami Dolphins.

As it turns out, Laremy Tunsil will avoid being placed in the league’s substance abuse program according to a source telling ESPN. The rookie lineman could have been placed in the program before playing a down of football based on a clause in the CBA signed between the league and its players in 2011 that allows a rookie to be entered into Stage One of the program based on the following:

"“Behavior [including but not limited to an arrest or conduct related to an alleged misuse of substances of abuse occurring up to two football seasons prior to the player’s applicable scouting combine] which, in the judgment of the medical director, exhibits physical, behavioral, or psychological signs or symptoms of misuse of substances of abuse.”"

Laremy Tunsil told the media on Friday when he was introduced by the Dolphins, that he doesn’t have a problem and shouldn’t be judged by the video’s release:

"“You can check all my college tests. I never failed one.”“Don’t question my character. You can’t judge a book by its cover. I’m a good person. I’m a laid-back guy. I don’t do much.”"

The Dolphins said they researched Tunsil extensively, including the subject of drug use and said they were aware of the video’s existence. Tunsil is also drawing attention for saying that he took money from coaches while playing for the Ole Miss Rebels. The school, currently being investigated by the NCAA, has said they will look into the claims.

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