Quote:Hey, don't blame me, I didn't draft the policy!  There are significant differences between the mechanics of an NFL suspension and a criminal conviction, the standard of proof being one.  The language of the Substance Abuse Policy is somewhat ambiguous in spots and was revised during his suspension.  In the end, the commissioner has a huge amount of discretion in making a decision on reinstatement.

 

Why do you assume there is a confidentiality issue on any and all information?  Is this something you know to be a fact or merely your personal speculation?  

I know you didn't draft the policy, but you are trying to interpret it in a way that doesn't make sense. Having worked for years with a union tells me that your moving punishment dates wouldn't fly. The league doesn't offer grace periods on their punishment until trial and conviction, so they wouldn't suddenly reserve punishment for Blackmon until his conviction. They have always based their punishment on being arrested. To do different with Blackmon would be a violation of the union contract.

 

There is nothing to assume as far as confidentiality. It's the law. Your employer can't speak about things that involve your health, and drug abuse and the treatment and/or status falls into this category.

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