Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Josh Freeman has voluntarily entered the NFL drug program. Freeman issued the following statement saying that he takes a drug to help control his ADHD and put himself into the program.
“I have NEVER tested positive for any illegal drugs or related substances,” Freeman said. “Further, I have agreed to take, and have PASSED 46 NFL-regulated drug tests over the last year and a half. … 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 (Ritalin 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.”
The confidentiality of Freeman’s medical status has been violated, and he and the NFL Players Association plan to take action.
Earlier this evening, ESPN.com reported that Freeman was  in stage one of the NFL’s drug program.
