The subject of marijuana use in our country has grown stronger in the last few years. What used to be considered an illegal drug in this country is now getting backed up by many different groups and politicians to legalize it. In the United States alone, there have now been twenty-six states that have laws that legalize the use of marijuana, whether that be for medical use or recreational (Governing). Although many argue that this drug still possesses many negative effects, researchers have actually found that this drug is very beneficial for your health. While the country is starting to realize that this drug is very beneficial for your health, the world of sports thinks otherwise. In our major sports leagues in the United States, marijuana or any other form of the drug is still considered a banned substance. As laws for legalization are still being discussed in our country, our sports leagues haven’t changed …show more content…
Reasons for that is its natural benefits compared to over the counter drugs that most doctors prescribe. In most sports leagues, particularly the NFL, when athletes undergo go injuries or pains such as concussions, joint pain, anxiety, a lot of these doctors will prescribe opioids, or pain relief drugs. The problem is that opioid drugs are very addictive drugs that can cause an unhealthy dependency to the athlete. A survey of one hundred fifty current NFL athletes was conducted to show what types of drugs these athletes use. “The use of chemical painkillers in the league is extremely common. 91% of current and former NFL players surveyed said they had taken opiate-based painkillers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and propoxyphene for pain. NFL Doctors often inject painkillers directly to the affected area for quick relief, allowing the player to return to the field more quickly. 45% of players surveyed said they have felt pressured into using chemical painkillers by team doctors, staff, and teammates”