In March, the NFL relaxed their rules on the usage of marijuana among players. This change in rules led many Cowboys fans to start thinking about a return for defensive end, Randy Gregory, but where is he?
In February of 2019, Gregory was suspended indefinitely by the league for violating the NFLs substance abuse policy. He tested positive for the use of marijuana. This was his fourth suspension since entering the league in 2015.
This spring, the NFL changed the way they viewed the usage of marijuana and redid some of the rules they had pertaining to it. Under the new collective bargaining agreement, players who tested positive for marijuana would no longer be suspended and the amount of THC required in a player’s system to make the test positive was raised.
Because of this overhaul to the rules, many believed Gregory would be making a comeback to Dallas soon. However, that has not been the case.
The problem is the new rules do not apply to Gregory. Because his contract with the league was made before the rule changes, he is still attached to the old CBA.
There are some positives though. Gregory has stated that his use of marijuana is for a mental condition that he suffers with. Under the new CBA, teams are required to improve the mental health options available to players. So, if Gregory is reinstated he could work with team doctors to set up the right treatment for himself.
It was reported in March that Gregory officially filed for reinstatement and that the Cowboys were preparing for his return. Gregory was hopeful on a return, saying this time it was for good.
Since March, news about Gregory has quieted down with no real answers coming from the Cowboys or the NFL. So as of right now, there is no confirmation that Gregory will be playing in 2020.
Despite being drafted in 2015, Gregory only has only played two whole seasons, missing 46 games due to suspensions. Dallas has him under contract through 2020, but if he is reinstated, he will become a restricted free agent in 2021.
When he played, Gregory was a great pass-rusher and showed a lot of potential to become a solid defensive threat. In the 2018 season, Gregory set a career high with 6.5 sacks and produced 16.5 together with Demarcus Lawrence.
Aldon Smith’s reinstatement by the NFL should give some hope to Cowboys fans on the future for Gregory. Only time will tell.
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