NFL Threatens Significant Discipline For Teams That Violate Alcohol Policy
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A memo recently sent out to all NFL teams from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, is warning that there will be “significant discipline” every time there is a violation of the NFL’s alcohol policy. The warning comes hours after Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Todd Downing was arrested and charged with DUI.
Downing reportedly was arrested early Friday morning after coming off a statement 27-17 road win against Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. According to the police report, Downing allegedly reeked of alcohol after being pulled over by a state trooper that was patrolling the area at around 2:30 in the morning. The coach was booked at Williamson County Jail. The process began at 4:36 a.m., and Downing later posted bail at 6:46 a.m.
The memo read, in part:
“In light of recent events, clubs are reminded that League police prohibits alcoholic beverages, including beer, in the locker rooms, practice or office facilities, or while traveling on team buses or planes at any time during the preseason, regular season, or postseason. This applies to all players, coaches, club personnel, and guests traveling with your team. This policy has been in place for many years. Making alcohol available at club facilities or while traveling creates significant and unnecessary risks to the League, its players, coaches and others. Violations of this important policy will be taken seriously and will result in significant discipline.”
“Each club should ensure that its travel arrangements do not include providing alcohol service at any time and should also take appropriate steps to confirm that alcohol (whether beer or any other alcoholic beverage) is not available at its facility. Please direct all further questions on this subject to Management Council or Football Operations.”
The Washington Commanders disciplined many of its players this week after viral videos surfaced of the team partaking in alcoholic drinks on a flight back from Philadelphia. The Commanders pulled off an upset 32-21 win over Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles. As a result of the team’s actions, discipline will not be handed down by the league. A spokesperson announced that the NFL is pleased with the Commanders’ handling of the situation.
Bleacher Report has more HERE.
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