Former Broncos OLB Randy Gregory Files Lawsuit Against NFL and Team for Discrimination
Former Denver Broncos outside linebacker Randy Gregory has taken legal action against the NFL and the team, alleging discrimination and over $500,000 in fines for his use of THC for medical purposes.
In the lawsuit filed in Arapahoe County District Court, Gregory claims that he was prescribed Dronabinol to help manage social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite the NFL no longer suspending players for THC use, it remains a prohibited substance, leading to fines for positive tests.
While the Broncos are named in the suit, they do not have a role in imposing fines related to drug testing. The team follows the NFL’s drug testing protocols as outlined in the collective bargaining agreement with the players’ association.
Gregory’s agent, Peter Schaffer, stated that the lawsuit aims to push for alternative pain management options in the NFL, highlighting the disparity in treatment compared to other prescribed medications. The player seeks reasonable accommodation to address his disabilities under the supervision of his physician.
The legal action claims that Gregory’s requests for accommodation were denied by the league, despite efforts to obtain permission for medical use of Dronabinol during non-work hours. The repeated denials led to fines totaling $532,500 for THC violations since March 2023.
Gregory, who has been diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, asserts that the league’s failure to accommodate his medical needs constitutes discrimination under Colorado law. Seeking damages, Gregory was granted the right to sue by the Colorado Civil Rights Division after filing discrimination charges in 2023.
Despite previous suspensions for violating the NFL’s drug policy, Gregory signed a lucrative contract with the Broncos in 2022 but saw limited playing time due to injuries. He was later traded to the San Francisco 49ers and currently plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
As the legal battle unfolds, Gregory’s case sheds light on the intersection of medical treatment, player rights, and league policies in professional sports. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.