Responding to a report that he was in the NFL's drug program, Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman issued a statement to CBSSports.com Monday night. "Let me be very clear. I have NEVER tested positive for any illegal drugs or related substances. Further, I have agreed to take, and have PBUTTED 46 NFL-regulated drug tests over the last year and a half. "Since the confidentiality of my medical status has been publicly violated, I am choosing to address this matter so that grossly erroneous assumptions about me do not persist. Like millions of Americans, I have ADHD and I have been prescribed and permitted to take medication to treat this condition for the entirety of my NFL career. Well over a year ago, I took a different medication for the same condition (Ritilin rather than Adderall) , and to assure everyone that the error was a one-time mistake, I agreed to be voluntarily tested in the 'NFL Program.' "Since that time, I have taken and passed all 46 drug tests I've been given, which test for every drug and banned substance imaginable. I agreed to allow such testing to be done at my workplace (team facility) because I spend all of my time there and I have nothing whatsoever to hide or be embarrassed about. "Unfortunately, it appears that some people who may have noticed the testing at my workplace have made hurtful and incorrect assumptions and chosen to disseminate inaccurate and very disturbing information. It is a shame that when times have gotten tough, people have chosen to attack the character of others, rather than supporting each other. I remain dedicated and focused to being the best quarterback I can be and to help a team win a championship." Freeman's statement was prompted by an ESPN report that said the Bucs quarterback was a stage one participant in the NFL's drug program, although he wasn't one strike away from suspension despite being subject to random testing. Source: CBS Sports SteveRobWhatever's Take: The Josh Freeman saga takes another turn. I bet the NFLPA will be after whoever leaked out his information. Greg Schiano better hope it wasn't him who leaked this out because if he did, he's as good as gone in Tampa. This story is far from over and could mushroom into a huge mess for the organization.
Sounds more like a smear campaign by Schiano and the Bucs. They really just need to cut ties now and let him go on his way. No reason in keeping him around...not like anyone would trade him KNOWING that he won't be wearing a Bucs uniform.
