NFL Updates Drug Policies with Adjusted THC Limits and Reduced Fines

The NFL and NFLPA announced sweeping changes to substance abuse and performance-enhancing drug policies, including higher THC thresholds and revised testing protocols.

• The threshold for a positive THC test has been raised from 150 ng/ml to 350 ng/ml under the league's substance abuse policy.
• Fines for positive tests and missed tests have been reduced, with a second missed test now incurring a $45,000 fine instead of a one-game fine.
• Players will now be tested for fentanyl if deemed clinically necessary, but a positive result will not result in discipline beyond a potential fine for missing mandatory meetings.
• Missed test counts will reset to zero after a year without violations, and pending missed test penalties will be excused under the new rules.
• Changes to the performance-enhancing drug policy include extended testing windows and potential reinstatement of suspended players even if they still test positive under certain conditions.

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