Perhaps this incident with him actually staying somewhat healthy throughout the end of last season will be a really good thing for Neal. I hope he is as healthy and physically prepared as he's ever been during his four game suspension. Perhaps not being able to participate in the game in a way that isn't injury related will help get him on the 'right course'. I'm not expecting much from the guy, but if he can come off the bench for a handful of plays a game and generate some kind of push, he would make for some decent depth.

Originally Posted by: doddpower 

I think if it's weed or something that the first offense is a lesser punishment.

Originally Posted by: nerdmann 

II. Discipline for Violation of Law Related to Substances of Abuse Other Than Alcohol.

A. Additional Commissioner Discipline.
Apart from and in addition to any other provisions of this Policy, players convicted of or
admitting to a violation of law (including, within the context of a diversionary program,
deferred adjudication, disposition of supervision, or similar arrangement including but
not limited to nolo contendere) relating to use, possession, acquisition, sale, or
distribution of substances of abuse other than alcohol, or conspiring to do so, are subject
to appropriate discipline as determined by the Commissioner. Where appropriate, such
discipline may include substantially longer suspensions than those set forth below.

B. Discipline for Violations of the Law.
A player will normally be subject to discipline up to and including suspension without
pay for four regular and/or post-season games for a first violation of the law related to
substances of abuse other than alcohol and for six regular and/or post-season games for a
second violation of the law related to substances of abuse other than alcohol. A player’s
treatment history may be considered by the Commissioner in determining the appropriate
degree of discipline. The suspension period may be extended if medically necessary, and,
if extended, may involve mandatory treatment if required by the Medical Director.

III. Discipline for Alcohol-Related Violations of Law or Abuse of Alcohol.

A. Abusive Consumption.
Although alcoholic beverages are legal substances, when consumed abusively they can
produce or contribute to conduct that is unlawful and threatens the health and safety of
players and other persons. Such conduct is detrimental to the integrity of and public
confidence in the NFL and professional football. In addition, the abusive consumption of
alcoholic beverages may indicate a substance abuse problem that requires medical
attention.

B. Alcohol-Related Offenses.
The Commissioner will review and may impose a fine, suspension, or other appropriate
discipline if a player is convicted of or admits to a violation of the law (including within
the context of a diversionary program, deferred adjudication, disposition of supervision,
or similar arrangement including but not limited to nolo contendere) relating to the use of
alcohol. Absent aggravating circumstances, discipline for a first offense will generally be
a fine of two-seventeenths (2/17) of the amount in Paragraph 5 of the NFL Player
Contract to a maximum of $50,000. If the Commissioner finds that there were
aggravating circumstances, including but not limited to felonious conduct or serious
injury or death of third parties, and/or if the player has had prior drug or alcohol-related
misconduct, increased discipline up to and including suspension may be imposed.