NFL, NFLPA announce PED deal, three suspensions lifted

It only took them three years after initially “agreeing” to an hGH policy, but the NFL and the NFLPA have now put it in writing.

The league and the union just put out a joint statement announcing changes to the performance enhancing substance policy (which must mean they’re still hammering out the details of the substance abuse policy).

Accordingly, several players will be allowed to return to their teams this week, including Wes Welker, Orlando Scandrick and Stedman Bailey.

According to the release, positive tests are subject to third-party arbitration appeals, and testing for hGH will begin “within the next few weeks.”

Testing for hGH will be “fully implemented” this season, with procedures being sent to clubs and players this week. Testing will begin later this month.

First violations will result in a suspension without pay for up to six games. Masking agents or diuretics will draw a two-game suspension, while use of a “steroid, stimulant, HGH or other banned substance” will result in four-gamer. Manipulating a test can get you six.

Second violations will result in a 10-game suspension, and a third will be a minimum of two years.

As expected, offseason stimulant tests will be handled under the substance abuse policy.

The commissioner “will retain his current disciplinary authority” over discipline for violations other than positive tests (such as arrests). Players have a right to appeal to a member of the existing CBA appeals panel.