I completely agree that this entire situation with Browner is beyond ridiculous, but allow me to play devil's advocate.
I think the NFL and Goodell may actually have their hands tied here with this substance abuse policy. They probably believe that the suspension is too harsh given the circumstances and that is why they were willing to lessen the punishment. But if they just decide to say screw the rule and screw the policy and let BB off the hook, then the rule instantly becomes discretionary and therefore relatively toothless. The next guy who screams bloody murder after violating this policy will have a footing to stand on. And just think of all the guys that lost money and playing time already under this policy. They might want to at least try and get those game checks back. It would open up pandora's box
Oh they can challenge them all they want, but the league may be forced to fight it vociferously to prevent more cases blowing up.I don't know if I agree with that. I think the question is whether or not the NFL can enforce rules and require action of former players who are not in the league. Browner was not a member of the NFL at the time that these tests were missed, therefore he shouldn't be subject to the terms of the collective bargaining agreement.
This is why I think there is talk about taking this to court.
I also think that even if the NFL has their hands tied because of how the rule is stated, doesn't mean the rule can't be challenged in court. Companies are challenged every day on the legality of rules that they enforce on their workers, this is no different.
Though he would not have come back for this game because of the injury, I do believe that Browner is probably more valuable for us against the 9ers than maybe any other team.
His size and physicality are very important against a physcial WR like Bouldin and a hybrid WR/TE like Davis. Now that Crabs is back, the 9ers have a big receiving corp that Browner excels against (as opposed to small, fast and quick guys in which he sometimes struggles).
Browner would knock Boldin on his butt on the regular… That's one dude that Boldin does not want to get into a wrestling match with…
Yeah, I don't see that. Boldin is pretty tough himself...and very veteran savvy. He plays fearless and he has always seemed to be hungry. Browner would be going toe to toe with someone who doesn't fear him and doesn't scare away from physicality. I'm not saying Boldin knocks him out or anything, but I certainly don't see Boldin being intimidated or taking any shit from Browner without a serious fight.