I am not aware of the rules or the steps for player reinstatement from this stage of addict/player recuperation, but the one rule that should count the most is Blackmon's recovery. Given the serious mental, and health issues associated with substance abuse, It is good to know that Blackmon will have the opportunity to become not only a better player, but possibly the opportunity to be an overall more healthy person mentally, and physically. For himself, and his loved one's.
With Blackmon's natural talent, along with the efforts he has worked for as an athlete, he has earned the opportunity to redeem his career, and life. The NFL is a great employer in general, and does invest heavily in players health, and safety. The NFL does seem to award a lot of leeway to redeem an employees perceived, or fully warranted misgivings.
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I appreciate that the NFL as an employer in general does put a lot of effort, and finances into bettering the people they employ in these types of instances of addiction. I don't know if they are given the credit they deserve in most cases, though you could cite example after example of second chances, and support of many individuals from players like Michael Vick, to coaches like Andy Moeller, Wade Phillips, or even to the length of reinstating Greg Williams. Bleck! Greg Williams.
Knowing that the NFL does follow a path that works towards redemption, I am sure the league office will be more likely to help Blackmon recover, and return to the field as early as possible, which I am sure is contingent on steps that Blackmon will be required to take to prove he is following through on his end of his addiction recovery. If we get to see him play this next season at all would be a positive sign. It would show a level of commitment, which could translate to him being a better player. I think we have a lot to be excited for given the way we played in the latter part of last season, while being without a lot of key players. I am excited to consider what Justin has the potential to bring to our passing game. It would be a huge letdown if he fails to come back. For himself, the team, and us as fans.
Having seen this name earlier in the news today, I can only pause to wonder. Will Titus Young recieve the help he needs without being employed by a business with the resources like the NFL? There are a lot of resources that players have at their disposal most of us would never have the privilege of employing in our own lives. I'm not willing to be tackled by Ndamukong Suh to get it either. I appreciate having the ability to walk to my seat to watch those fools try to kill each other.
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