Justin Blackmon Can't Put the Bottle Down! (1 Viewer)

[LongTimeSufferingVikingFan]

The power of addiction

 

[ILUVBEER99]

He's back, sober as ever.

 

[Area51Inhabitant]

I hope he can get council from someone like a Cris Carter who nearly derailed a hof career with drug and alcohol problems. Ultimately though it'll be up to Justin alone to beat his demons and get his life back on track. It might cost him his lucrative career but this might ultimately be the best thing that could happen to him. Lets hope that he's truly hit bottom this time and he takes his upcoming rehab seriously. Maybe then he'll have a fighting chance to turn this around.

 

[Daywalker]

I couldn't care less about Blackmon just wonder where does alcoholism fall with regards to people with disabilities? Is it a disease? Is the NFL allowed to test him for alcohol?

 

[cstu]

I couldn't care less about Blackmon just wonder where does alcoholism fall with regards to people with disabilities? Is it a disease? Is the NFL allowed to test him for alcohol?

The NFL can test for alcohol and no they don't treat it like a disease. They consider it a privilege to be in the NFL so if you can't beat your demons you don't get to play in the league.

 

[Faust]

Report: Suspended Jaguars WR Justin Blackmon will enter rehab

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Michael Irivin stopped by Cleveland Browns Daily studio yesterday and did a pretty good interview where he touched on many subjects. Good listen but Justin Blackmon's name came up and he said that he has tried to reach out to Justin Blackmon but he hasn't gotten the sort of response that he would like.

Go to the 16:26 mark of the audio to hear this section of an interview that is over 23 minutes long.

http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/media-center/audio/Cleveland_Browns_Daily_116_Part_1_Irvin/28d9b088-56be-4d5e-9018-022f38636c92

“I know Justin Blackmon and I have reached out to Justin Blackmon and I have not had a response BACK from Justin Blackmon that I would like to have and it is sad. It is sad.

I spent some time with him at Oklahoma State and even prior to him coming into the league, and its like… you know I didn’t see that in him and I do wish for him.

And when you look at what he does when he steps out on the field, dudes and incredible, INCREDIBLE athlete. And I tell, I say listen.

I almost didn’t have the career I had. Ya know sometimes our gifts, our talents take us to a place that our person is not prepared for and you get in that place and all kinds of things happen. And I almost didn’t have that career. (he continues along that path but ends up saying) And now, ya know, I hope that Justin can see this.”

 

[JohnnyU]

I couldn't care less about Blackmon just wonder where does alcoholism fall with regards to people with disabilities? Is it a disease? Is the NFL allowed to test him for alcohol?

The NFL can test for alcohol and no they don't treat it like a disease. They consider it a privilege to be in the NFL so if you can't beat your demons you don't get to play in the league.

Is it illegal to have a drink when you play in the NFL?

 

[Joe Summer]

I couldn't care less about Blackmon just wonder where does alcoholism fall with regards to people with disabilities? Is it a disease? Is the NFL allowed to test him for alcohol?

The NFL can test for alcohol and no they don't treat it like a disease. They consider it a privilege to be in the NFL so if you can't beat your demons you don't get to play in the league.

Is it illegal to have a drink when you play in the NFL?

If you're not in the NFL's Substance Abuse Program, you can drink as much as you want (within reason of course).But once you screw up and are entered into the program, then you become subjected to random drug tests. And at that point you might be able to get away with "one drink", but you better not drink enough that it will show up on a test the next day, otherwise you'll end up like Blackmon.

 

[Carl Eller's Dead Liver]

Just wanted to bring this thread back up.......there were quite a few of you out there that said "This doesn't make him an alcoholic". It sure does!

 

[ConnSKINS26]

Jesus. This bump scared me.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

You should accept that you're 'already dead' re: Blackmon. And be pleasantly surprised if things go your way in the end.

 

[Billy Ball Thorton]

Just wanted to bring this thread back up.......there were quite a few of you out there that said "This doesn't make him an alcoholic". It sure does!

Your awesome. Thanks for the bump.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

This isn't as far-fetched the way its painted here.

The Jags might consider WR Sammy Watkins if they favor only one of the top-three QBs and that guy is gone and if DE Jadeveon Clowney is also gone. That 'could' happen so they pose the question who the Jaguars would take if that scenerio plays out and they come up with WR Sammy Watkins.

http://members.jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2014-02-23/story/t-u-nfl-combine-catch-rising-star-dont-rule-out-clemson-wr

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T-U at NFL Combine: Catch a rising star? Don't rule out Clemson WR Sammy Watkins for Jaguars
By Hays Carlyon Sun, Feb 23, 2014 @ 10:31 pm | updated Mon, Feb 24, 2014 @ 1:37 am
INDIANAPOLIS — The Jaguars will take a quarterback or edge rusher with the third-overall pick in the draft.

Right? Well, there could be a scenario in which the Jaguars might not.



What if only one of the Big Three quarterbacks — Louisville’s Teddy Bridgewater, Central Florida’s Blake Bortles and Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel — “present” themselves to Jaguars general manager Dave Caldwell as worthy of the pick and is off the board first.

What if South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney is gone by the third pick?

There are a few possibilities the Jaguars would consider in that situation, but the most likely could be Clemson receiver Sammy Watkins, who is rising up draft boards.

With Caldwell describing the return of twice-suspended receiver Justin Blackmon as a “luxury,” the Jaguars could look to add an explosive playmaker like the 6-foot, 211-pound Watkins.

In three seasons with the Tigers, Watkins caught 240 passes for 3,391 yards and 27 touchdowns. He did miss two games his sophomore season after a drug arrest involving marijuana.

“What I love doing is dominating defenses,” Watkins said. “I think I can run by just about anybody. That’s my objective, that’s my motive. … I feel like I can score on just about any play on any route when I get the ball. That’s the mentality you have to have as a receiver.”



Caldwell said of Blackmon: “Justin needs to take care of himself. Our biggest thing for Justin is to make sure he lives a happy and healthy lifestyle. We haven’t really thought much about it [him coming back]. If he can get things right and he’s right, we would welcome him back.”

Caldwell had success at his previous two stops, Atlanta and Indianapolis, by cultivating a dynamic receiving tandem. The Colts thrived with Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne, and the Falcons scare any defense with Julio Jones and Roddy White.

Without Blackmon, the Jaguars have one proven receiver in Cecil Shorts.

Watkins has drawn raves from draft analysts and is widely considered the best receiver in a class as deep as any in recent memory.

“Watkins is a special player,” NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock said. “I usually don’t get too excited about wide receivers in the top 10, but this kid is different.”

Mayock cites Watkins’ explosiveness, size, speed and great hands, but admires another trait about his game.

“What I really like about this kid is he’s got some toughness,” Mayock said. “He’ll go over the middle. He’ll physically beat press coverage. He high-points the ball. He’s got a little attitude about him. He blocks people. You can see him getting [filtered word] off during games and going after corners and safeties and linebackers. He’s got an attitude like he wants to be the best player there is and when you combine that with his physical ability, I think it’s awesome.”

Watkins realizes with press coverage becoming more common in the NFL, his physical style will translate well. His goal is to be selected in the top five.

“I try to be physical out there on the field as far as getting off press, blocking down the field,” Watkins said. “To be that dominant receiver, I need to have that total package. Everyone knows all wide receivers can catch balls and score, but for me I’m focusing on the little things — blocking, getting off the press and being a physical, dominant receiver.”

Watkins worked out at the NFL Scouting Combine on Sunday. Prior to his workout, Watkins had clear goals.

“I’ve just got to be uncommon when I go out there, run those drills and separate myself,” Watkins said. “I want to run something crazy, maybe break the combine record [4.24 by Titans RB Chris Johnson in 2008].”

Watkins didn’t come close to the record, but still posted a solid time. He ran an official time of 4.43, one of the fastest among receivers.

South Carolina cornerback Victor Hampton never lost to Clemson in his career, but didn’t hesitate to name Watkins the best receiver he faced in college.

“He’s No. 1,” Hampton said. “He’s a guy you’re going to think about from Sunday to Saturday.”

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

This isn't as far-fetched the way its painted here.

The Jags might consider WR Sammy Watkins if they favor only one of the top-three QBs and that guy is gone and if DE Jadeveon Clowney is also gone. That 'could' happen so they pose the question who the Jaguars would take if that scenerio plays out and they come up with WR Sammy Watkins.

http://members.jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2014-02-23/story/t-u-nfl-combine-catch-rising-star-dont-rule-out-clemson-wr

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T-U at NFL Combine: Catch a rising star? Don't rule out Clemson WR Sammy Watkins for Jaguars
By Hays Carlyon Sun, Feb 23, 2014 @ 10:31 pm | updated Mon, Feb 24, 2014 @ 1:37 am
INDIANAPOLIS — The Jaguars will take a quarterback or edge rusher with the third-overall pick in the draft.

Right? Well, there could be a scenario in which the Jaguars might not.



What if only one of the Big Three quarterbacks — Louisville’s Teddy Bridgewater, Central Florida’s Blake Bortles and Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel — “present” themselves to Jaguars general manager Dave Caldwell as worthy of the pick and is off the board first.

What if South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney is gone by the third pick?

There are a few possibilities the Jaguars would consider in that situation, but the most likely could be Clemson receiver Sammy Watkins, who is rising up draft boards.

With Caldwell describing the return of twice-suspended receiver Justin Blackmon as a “luxury,” the Jaguars could look to add an explosive playmaker like the 6-foot, 211-pound Watkins.

In three seasons with the Tigers, Watkins caught 240 passes for 3,391 yards and 27 touchdowns. He did miss two games his sophomore season after a drug arrest involving marijuana.

“What I love doing is dominating defenses,” Watkins said. “I think I can run by just about anybody. That’s my objective, that’s my motive. … I feel like I can score on just about any play on any route when I get the ball. That’s the mentality you have to have as a receiver.”



Caldwell said of Blackmon: “Justin needs to take care of himself. Our biggest thing for Justin is to make sure he lives a happy and healthy lifestyle. We haven’t really thought much about it [him coming back]. If he can get things right and he’s right, we would welcome him back.”

Caldwell had success at his previous two stops, Atlanta and Indianapolis, by cultivating a dynamic receiving tandem. The Colts thrived with Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne, and the Falcons scare any defense with Julio Jones and Roddy White.

Without Blackmon, the Jaguars have one proven receiver in Cecil Shorts.

Watkins has drawn raves from draft analysts and is widely considered the best receiver in a class as deep as any in recent memory.

“Watkins is a special player,” NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock said. “I usually don’t get too excited about wide receivers in the top 10, but this kid is different.”

Mayock cites Watkins’ explosiveness, size, speed and great hands, but admires another trait about his game.

“What I really like about this kid is he’s got some toughness,” Mayock said. “He’ll go over the middle. He’ll physically beat press coverage. He high-points the ball. He’s got a little attitude about him. He blocks people. You can see him getting [filtered word] off during games and going after corners and safeties and linebackers. He’s got an attitude like he wants to be the best player there is and when you combine that with his physical ability, I think it’s awesome.”

Watkins realizes with press coverage becoming more common in the NFL, his physical style will translate well. His goal is to be selected in the top five.

“I try to be physical out there on the field as far as getting off press, blocking down the field,” Watkins said. “To be that dominant receiver, I need to have that total package. Everyone knows all wide receivers can catch balls and score, but for me I’m focusing on the little things — blocking, getting off the press and being a physical, dominant receiver.”

Watkins worked out at the NFL Scouting Combine on Sunday. Prior to his workout, Watkins had clear goals.

“I’ve just got to be uncommon when I go out there, run those drills and separate myself,” Watkins said. “I want to run something crazy, maybe break the combine record [4.24 by Titans RB Chris Johnson in 2008].”

Watkins didn’t come close to the record, but still posted a solid time. He ran an official time of 4.43, one of the fastest among receivers.

South Carolina cornerback Victor Hampton never lost to Clemson in his career, but didn’t hesitate to name Watkins the best receiver he faced in college.

“He’s No. 1,” Hampton said. “He’s a guy you’re going to think about from Sunday to Saturday.”

He's talented enough to be selected there, but I have a hard time seeing this given the QB and pass rush needs.

 

[Warpig]

Has there been any news/updates on Blackmon?

 

[SaintsInDome2006]

I think if Manziel ends up in Jax Blackmon (assuming he's not missing anymore games) is a fantastic riser for next year.

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

Has there been any news/updates on Blackmon?

No.

 

[dewmass]

I think if Manziel ends up in Jax Blackmon (assuming he's not missing anymore games) is a fantastic riser for next year.

Blackmon will be a fantastic riser next year no matter the QB in my opinion. If he can stay on the field he can be next years Josh Gordon. I have him in just about every team already at less than huge prices and will be trying to add in leagues I don't own him. Top 10 WR if he can get himself right and going in startups in WR30 area, the definition of buy low for anyone who doesn't mind a little risk on their roster

 

[Alex P Keaton]

I think if Manziel ends up in Jax Blackmon (assuming he's not missing anymore games) is a fantastic riser for next year.

Blackmon will be a fantastic riser next year no matter the QB in my opinion. If he can stay on the field he can be next years Josh Gordon. I have him in just about every team already at less than huge prices and will be trying to add in leagues I don't own him. Top 10 WR if he can get himself right and going in startups in WR30 area, the definition of buy low for anyone who doesn't mind a little risk on their roster

I like the thought process. Only challenge is that we have no idea if/when Blackmon will get on the field again. It isn't a complete stretch to envision him missing the entire 2014 season.

 

[JaxBill]

Has there been any news/updates on Blackmon?

No.

Nary a peep. No idea if he's even in town.

 

[msommer]

I think if Manziel ends up in Jax Blackmon (assuming he's not missing anymore games) is a fantastic riser for next year.

Blackmon will be a fantastic riser next year no matter the QB in my opinion. If he can stay on the field he can be next years Josh Gordon. I have him in just about every team already at less than huge prices and will be trying to add in leagues I don't own him. Top 10 WR if he can get himself right and going in startups in WR30 area, the definition of buy low for anyone who doesn't mind a little risk on their roster

I like the thought process. Only challenge is that we have no idea if/when Blackmon will get on the field again. It isn't a complete stretch to envision him missing the entire 2014 season.

I can see Blackmon rising like the icecube in the bottom of the glass as the drink is poured...

 

[cstu]

I think if Manziel ends up in Jax Blackmon (assuming he's not missing anymore games) is a fantastic riser for next year.

Blackmon will be a fantastic riser next year no matter the QB in my opinion. If he can stay on the field he can be next years Josh Gordon. I have him in just about every team already at less than huge prices and will be trying to add in leagues I don't own him. Top 10 WR if he can get himself right and going in startups in WR30 area, the definition of buy low for anyone who doesn't mind a little risk on their roster

I like the thought process. Only challenge is that we have no idea if/when Blackmon will get on the field again. It isn't a complete stretch to envision him missing the entire 2014 season.

I can see Blackmon rising like the icecube in the bottom of the glass as the drink is poured...

Except the ice cube melts in the glass instead of drinking it all.

 

[cstu]

Has there been any news/updates on Blackmon?

No.

Nary a peep. No idea if he's even in town.

Almost four months without even a mention of him anywhere. Could he be in rehab that long?

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

Has there been any news/updates on Blackmon?

No.

Nary a peep. No idea if he's even in town.

Almost four months without even a mention of him anywhere. Could he be in rehab that long?

I wouldn't think so. But I do find it odd that with the reach that social media has, that we haven't heard a thing.

 

[bonesman]

Has there been any news/updates on Blackmon?

No.

Nary a peep. No idea if he's even in town.

Almost four months without even a mention of him anywhere. Could he be in rehab that long?

Yea, not that unlikely. Probably 90 day mandatory and then he spent the first few weeks of that denying he had any problem *shrug* Who knows though.

 

[SaintsInDome2006]

These guys are on vacation, relax, he'll be ok.

Buy buy buy.

 

[False Start]

These guys are on vacation, relax, he'll be ok.

Buy buy buy.

You seem so sure. I would love to see his full potential without a suspension. You would think the league would issue a ruling before the draft so the Jags can prepare.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

(1) A player in Stage Three will remain in Stage Three

for the remainder of his NFL career.

(3) Testing: A player in Stage Three will be subject to
unannounced Testing. At the sole discretion of the Medical
Advisor, a player may or may not be tested; however, if he
is tested, he may be tested up to 10 times during any
calendar month. Such Testing shall include Testing for the
NFL Drug Panel and alcohol, but in addition Tests for other
substances of abuse will be conducted if the player’s
Treatment Plan requires abstention from and enumerates
testing for such substances. After being in Stage Three for
three seasons, a player may request of the Medical Advisor
that the number of tests that he is subject to be reduced.
The Medical Advisor may, but is not required to, agree to
the request.

Given his history and the fact that he failed a test just a few weeks after returning from his last suspension the odds that he can keep it clean for 3+ years while being tested up to 10x/month are pretty slim.

 

[karmarooster]

boggles my mind how the players' association would agree to allow players to be tested for alcohol, 10x per month, for 3 years... while the guy is on his own.

A breathalyzer before a practice, game, or team meeting? Fine... that's the maurice clarrett treatment. But if the dude had a few beers on a Wednesday night? WTH?

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

boggles my mind how the players' association would agree to allow players to be tested for alcohol, 10x per month, for 3 years... while the guy is on his own.

A breathalyzer before a practice, game, or team meeting? Fine... that's the maurice clarrett treatment. But if the dude had a few beers on a Wednesday night? WTH?

That's what two or three DUIs will get you.

 

[bonesman]

boggles my mind how the players' association would agree to allow players to be tested for alcohol, 10x per month, for 3 years... while the guy is on his own.

A breathalyzer before a practice, game, or team meeting? Fine... that's the maurice clarrett treatment. But if the dude had a few beers on a Wednesday night? WTH?

Alcohol is a dangerous substance. It's legal (hasn't always been and isn't everywhere) but it's certainly not safe.

And for some people (Blackmon seems like he could be one) ANY amount of alcohol is too much

 

[False Start]

boggles my mind how the players' association would agree to allow players to be tested for alcohol, 10x per month, for 3 years... while the guy is on his own.

A breathalyzer before a practice, game, or team meeting? Fine... that's the maurice clarrett treatment. But if the dude had a few beers on a Wednesday night? WTH?

That's what two or three DUIs will get you.

I agree, he just needs to put the bottle down during the season. But do agree on why is a person 21 years old or older being tested for alcohol like he is a child? Does Mayhew get tested, he should be held in a higher regard? I in no way defend people driving under the influence. He should have his license taken away after just one and still believe that, he can kill someone. But having a drink after practice on a Thursday after practice at home should not be the league's concern.

 

[cstu]

Given his history and the fact that he failed a test just a few weeks after returning from his last suspension the odds that he can keep it clean for 3+ years while being tested up to 10x/month are pretty slim.

He never went to rehab before or admitted he had a problem. There are also medications used to treat alcoholism - Naltrexone stops people from enjoying alcohol and can be injected once a month. It will be tough for him to make it but it's possible.

 

[Gandalf]

Or campral. Or AA. People can recover. Isn't Chris Carter an alcoholic who sobered up and became great?

 

[Milkman]

I want to trade him this year. If a player I like is there I'm hoping I can dump him for a high 2nd.

He's going to drink again.

 

[Gandalf]

He very well might. And he might not. Up to you to figure out whether he is worth the risk.

 

[KellysHeroes]

Or campral. Or AA. People can recover. Isn't Chris Carter an alcoholic who sobered up and became great?

usually people have to lose EVERYTHING before they clean up. Chris was kicked off his 1st team and thought his career was over. Things were different back then, players were given a few extra chances back in the day mostly because there really was a substance abuse policy.

 

[Milkman]

He very well might. And he might not. Up to you to figure out whether he is worth the risk.

Ok you're obviously right but the odds are stacked against him big time. I think relapse rate for Alcoholics is like 80% or something crazy like that. He's a sell if you can get a good price for him during this draft. A high second rounder is being valued like a first rounder this year so it would be a good value getting a second round pick for him. Maybe in the 13-17ish range depending on who is there.

 

[EBF]

FYI, I offered him straight up in PPR for the 1.05, 1.06, and 1.07 rookie picks in one league from three different owners. No takers.

As of right now I haven't been willing to go later than that. Not sure if I'll pursue it further or not.

 

[Coeur de Lion]

Do we know what, exactly, his latest suspension was for? I couldn't find anything, so I'm assuming he failed an NFL test and they've kept the specifics under wraps.

I wonder how much incentive he really has to make the wholesale changes needed to beat his disease, personally. Obviously, destroying his career is a huge deal -- but he's a multi-millionaire in his early 20s either way. I'm reasonably certain that whatever your definition of rock bottom is, he ain't there yet. He might not care at all -- Charles Rogers-style "I got paid, now I can just hang out and party for the next few years worry free."

 

[metoo]

I will probably never own this guy because of the league rules. I don't see why anyone would at his current cost in dynasty.

 

[Milkman]

FYI, I offered him straight up in PPR for the 1.05, 1.06, and 1.07 rookie picks in one league from three different owners. No takers.

As of right now I haven't been willing to go later than that. Not sure if I'll pursue it further or not.

yeah I was offered a 3rd round pick from a couple people. I might as well just keep him. I would trade him for guys like Carey, Sims, Matthews, Robinson, Freeman.

 

[fatness]

FYI, I offered him straight up in PPR for the 1.05, 1.06, and 1.07 rookie picks in one league from three different owners. No takers.

As of right now I haven't been willing to go later than that. Not sure if I'll pursue it further or not.

Is anyone actually trying to trade for him? There's a decent chance he'll never play again. I'm not surprised those offers were turned down.

 

[Spike]

boggles my mind how the players' association would agree to allow players to be tested for alcohol, 10x per month, for 3 years... while the guy is on his own.

A breathalyzer before a practice, game, or team meeting? Fine... that's the maurice clarrett treatment. But if the dude had a few beers on a Wednesday night? WTH?

I agree. What if he decided to be smart and always had a chauffeur everywhere he went? Why, in that situation, would he need to be tested?

 

[Coeur de Lion]

boggles my mind how the players' association would agree to allow players to be tested for alcohol, 10x per month, for 3 years... while the guy is on his own.

A breathalyzer before a practice, game, or team meeting? Fine... that's the maurice clarrett treatment. But if the dude had a few beers on a Wednesday night? WTH?

I agree. What if he decided to be smart and always had a chauffeur everywhere he went? Why, in that situation, would he need to be tested?

Alcoholics can't be trusted to be "smart" and use good judgement when alcohol is involved. I agree that the testing policy is hugely invasive, but the players signed off on it, so...

 

[Warpig]

I gave up Cam Newton for him and Geno Smith in a salary cap league. On the outside, it looks like I gave up too much. But I'm banking that Blackmon comes back (and I'm a jags fan). And it saved me a ton of dough against the cap. And there are tons of stud QBs in FA this year that I could probably get for cheaper than I would have had to pay Cam.

I guess I'm trying to be optimistic. He's a good kid, did stuff with charities, and seemed to be somewhat intelligent (DUIs the exception). I'm assuming since we HAVEN'T heard anything about him he is progressing. We all know if he were getting in to trouble it would be all over the news. Maybe he's buckling down, kicking the habit, and trying to get squared away. I'm hoping so.

 

[Billy Ball Thorton]

Do we know what, exactly, his latest suspension was for? I couldn't find anything, so I'm assuming he failed an NFL test and they've kept the specifics under wraps.

I wonder how much incentive he really has to make the wholesale changes needed to beat his disease, personally. Obviously, destroying his career is a huge deal -- but he's a multi-millionaire in his early 20s either way. I'm reasonably certain that whatever your definition of rock bottom is, he ain't there yet. He might not care at all -- Charles Rogers-style "I got paid, now I can just hang out and party for the next few years worry free."

How can you suggest he hasn't hit rock bottom, do you know him? The guy is a passionate player and was stripped of his right to play, Jags recouped a bunch of money. That sound pretty low to me. Just because you have money doesn't make you any happier and if you equate money to happiness then that's on you.

 

[Gandalf]

Do we know what, exactly, his latest suspension was for? I couldn't find anything, so I'm assuming he failed an NFL test and they've kept the specifics under wraps.

I wonder how much incentive he really has to make the wholesale changes needed to beat his disease, personally. Obviously, destroying his career is a huge deal -- but he's a multi-millionaire in his early 20s either way. I'm reasonably certain that whatever your definition of rock bottom is, he ain't there yet. He might not care at all -- Charles Rogers-style "I got paid, now I can just hang out and party for the next few years worry free."

How can you suggest he hasn't hit rock bottom, do you know him? The guy is a passionate player and was stripped of his right to play, Jags recouped a bunch of money. That sound pretty low to me. Just because you have money doesn't make you any happier and if you equate money to happiness then that's on you.

I don't think all people need to hit rock bottom before they recovery. For Blackmon, the realization that they might be out of football because of drinking might provide the motivation he needs to stay clean. If he accepts that he has a problem then he can start moving towards recovery instead of worsening the addiction. It can happen. And he also could wind up pulling a Charles Rogers who had a severe substance use disorder and couldn't stop despite awful consequences.

Bottom line: if you can get something of value for him that is safer, it's probably a good idea, unless you can keep him rostered without issue. Then it could be better to go down with the ship and hope he recovers. Any addiction is a chronic illness and relapse is possible at any time so this isn't going to be cured. Just like we don't cure diabetes.

 

[False Start]

Do we know what, exactly, his latest suspension was for? I couldn't find anything, so I'm assuming he failed an NFL test and they've kept the specifics under wraps.

I wonder how much incentive he really has to make the wholesale changes needed to beat his disease, personally. Obviously, destroying his career is a huge deal -- but he's a multi-millionaire in his early 20s either way. I'm reasonably certain that whatever your definition of rock bottom is, he ain't there yet. He might not care at all -- Charles Rogers-style "I got paid, now I can just hang out and party for the next few years worry free."

How can you suggest he hasn't hit rock bottom, do you know him? The guy is a passionate player and was stripped of his right to play, Jags recouped a bunch of money. That sound pretty low to me. Just because you have money doesn't make you any happier and if you equate money to happiness then that's on you.

How can you suggest he has? Do you know him? We do not know all the facts. Is he bankrupt? Did his family stop caring? Did he lose his career? Is he in jail for many years? Does he have nowhere left to fall? If he has not lost everything he has not hit rock bottom. He like alcohol and got in trouble for it, hardly hitting rock bottom.