Does 80% of the NFL Smoke Weed?

As discussions about marijuana reform heat up in the NFL, Travis Kelce is at the forefront of the movement. The Kansas City Chiefs' star tight end recently estimated that around 80 percent of players use marijuana to manage physical and mental health issues, prompting a much-needed dialogue about the league’s outdated policies on cannabis. 

Kelce has been vocal about his support for the use of marijuana, not only within the NFL but also in society as a whole. He believes that the league's current policy on marijuana is outdated and inhibits players from utilizing a potential alternative to prescription painkillers. Kelce argues that marijuana possesses several therapeutic properties that can aid in pain management, stress relief, and overall well-being, which he believes could benefit players dealing with a grueling sport's physical and mental toll.

Kelce's outspoken advocacy for marijuana reform is not limited to NFL circles. He has actively supported broader legislative efforts to decriminalize and regulate the use of marijuana across the country. Kelce asserts that a more enlightened approach to marijuana would not only address the needs of athletes but also contribute to the overall societal shift toward accepting the plant's medicinal and recreational benefits.

Several prominent athletes, including former NFL players, have also called for a reassessment of the league's marijuana policy. They argue that marijuana can offer a safer and more effective alternative to traditional pain management methods, such as opioids, which can have severe side effects and lead to addiction.

While Kelce's estimation of 80 percent marijuana use among NFL players is anecdotal, it serves as a catalyst for broader conversations about the league's stance on marijuana. As the discussion gains momentum, there is a growing consensus that the NFL's policy needs reevaluation to align with evolving societal attitudes toward cannabis.

Many states have already legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use, further emphasizing the need for the NFL to adapt its policies to reflect changing times. By doing so, the league can prioritize player well-being and contribute to the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis, which has significantly impacted athletes.