NFL Discusses Marijuana for Pain Relief with Researchers

Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Eugene Monroe has been advocating for the NFL to update its policy on marijuana use for months, and to allow research on marijuana’s potential for pain relief.

Finally, it appears that a pair of the NFL’s top medical personnel participated in a conference call with the researchers that Monroe gave a $80,000 donation, reports The Washington Post.

The researchers spoke with Jeff Miller, the NFL’s senior vice president for player health and safety, and neurological surgeon Russell Lonser, part of the NFL’s head, neck and spine committee. The NFL reportedly requested the conference call.

“They are interested in learning more about the potential for cannabinoids to help current and former players, as is evidenced by them taking the call, and also expressed a desire to learn more,” said a University of Pennsylvania school of medicine assistant professor. “They are definitely showing genuine curiosity, and they are definitely not throwing up roadblocks.”

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell’s typical answer to marijuana-related questions has been: “I’ll listen to my doctors, but no…”