The NFL and Drugs

Matt Larkin
KIN 577

Recently, there has been a big controversy in the NFL regarding the drug suspensions for a couple of athletes, but not the typcial PED/steroid drug abuse.  Aqib Talib of the Buccaneers was suspended for taking Adderall before a game.  Adderall is a drug used for people with ADHD, among other disorders, to help improve focus and control action.  The interesting dilemma involved with the matter is that there are players who have a prescription for Adderall in the NFL and are allowed to take the drug prior to the game.  It is a legitimate debate as to whether or not those players have a bigger advantage than those not on the drug.  Should they be set to the same standard as their counterparts or be allowed to continue the practice?  I feel like in the heat of an NFL game, where there is constant adrenaline and fast sequence of movement, that a drug such as Adderall is not as necessary because it is meant for people who struggle keeping focus for long periods of time.  This is a subject that will require thorough investigation and research because it could damage the game if certain players are legally allowed to have an advantage over others.