Buccs Josh Freeman denies he’s been placed in NFL’s substance abuse program

Things continue to go downhill with the relationship between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and QB Josh Freeman. The QB and his head coach, Greg Schiano. Freeman is said to be seeking a trade as the situation is beyond repair. On Monday afternoon, his status with the team became rockier as several outlets reported that Freeman had been placed into Stage One of the league’s substance-abuse program.

Freeman released a statement via his agents, to clear the air and blast the lack of confidentiality he feels he’s experienced this season with the Buccs.

Let me be very clear. I have NEVER tested positive for any illegal drugs or related substances. Further, I have agreed to take, and have PASSED 46 NFL-regulated drug tests over the last year and a half.

Since the confidentiality of my medical status has been publicly violated, I am choosing to address this matter so that grossly erroneous assumptions about me do not persist.  Like millions of Americans, I have ADHD and I have been prescribed and permitted to take medication to treat this condition for the entirety of my NFL career.  Well over a year ago, I took a different medication for the same condition (Ritalin rather than Adderall) , and to assure everyone that the error was a one-time mistake, I agreed to be voluntarily tested in the “NFL Program”.  Since that time, I have taken and passed all 46 drug tests I’ve been given, which test for every drug and banned substance imaginable. I agreed to allow such testing to be done at my workplace (team facility) because I spend all of my time there and I have nothing whatsoever to hide or be embarrassed about.

Unfortunately, it appears that some people who may have noticed the testing at my workplace have made hurtful and incorrect assumptions and chosen to disseminate inaccurate and very disturbing information. It is a shame that when times have gotten tough, people have chosen to attack the character of others, rather than supporting each other. I remain dedicated and focused to being the best quarterback I can be and to help a team win a championship.