The NFL and the NFLPA have just agreed on new drug testing policy. One immediate ramification of the new deal is that several players currently suspended under the old rules will have their punishments significantly reduced if not wiped out entirely.
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Two players set to see a change in status with the new policy going into effect are Broncos WR Wes Welker and Cowboys CB Orlando Scandrick, both of whom were suspended after testing positive for amphetamines.
ESPN reports that, with the new policy in place, Welker and Scandrick will have their suspensions suspended and both will be eligible for Sunday.
Both Scandrick and Welker maintained their innocence after their positive tests, both claiming they had been slipped something in a drink.
Whether this development represents vindication for either man is a matter of interpretation. Both were forced to sit out a game and lose a game check as the negotiations over the new drug policy dragged on into the second week of the season.
But at least both know now that their suspensions are over and they can resume playing.
According to an earlier report by Ed Werder, up to 20 players could be eligible to return immediately under the new policy. One player not returning immediately? Josh Gordon.
The Cleveland Browns WR is still going to have to sit out more than half the season after multiple offenses.
The implementation of a new drug policy came in time to save Welker and Scandrick but nothing could stop the NFL from punishing Josh Gordon.