Josh Freeman Enters Drug Program
September 30th, 2013
Per ESPN’s Chris Mortensen, Bucs quarterback Josh Freeman has entered a drug program. When this happened is unclear.
The program is not listed as a rehab program, but a drug program (you can play with the semantics). Specifically, the program is called a “stage one.” More information from Mortensen:
Freeman has not had any incidents that have placed him in jeopardy of suspension, such as a positive test of a banned street-drug substance, sources said. Thus, Freeman is in relatively good standing under the program, sources added.
Freeman’s stage one status also would not necessarily mean he has tested positive for a banned substance even though he has been subject to random or reasonable cause testing, as deemed necessary by the medical director who oversees the program. A player can be placed in stage one for a variety of reasons, including behavioral causes. The medical director determines the length of stage one status.
There are three stages to the substance abuse program that contain a variety of corrective measures, including random testing, treatment, fines and suspensions.
Also, per Mortensen, Freeman has obtained permission to use an unknown prescription that is otherwise on the NFL’s banned substance list.
Mike Florio, of NBC Sports and ProFootballTalk.com, goes a little deeper to explain that a missed drug test (oversleeping again?) could have landed Freeman in the program.
It means that Freeman has done something — either a failed drug test, a missed test, or some other violation of the substance-abuse policy — to land in the lowest level of the program
Florio also reports the NFL players association is an uproar regarding this leak of Freeman’s status to Mortensen. All things drug related are considered highly confidential by the league. For example, the media wasn’t told why Aqib Talib and Eric Wright were suspended in any official capacity by the NFL or the Buccaneers. Fans were left to take the letdown cornerbacks’ word for it.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:35 pm
Nuff Said
September 30th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
P.O.S.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:38 pm
Wow, hoping he comes out his old self. Prayers for Freeman. You can beat this.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:38 pm
And the rest of the story…..
September 30th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Well we all knew it, right?
I was all for the Freeman benching but this guy did a lot for the franchise. Let’s hope he beats the addiction and can get back on track.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Still doesn’t change the fact Schiano can’t coach.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Bucs1987:
Ease up on the guy. If he does substance abuse problem, hope for the best for him. There’s more to life than a game.
Hope for the best for the guy if it’s true.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
It must be an exciting time to be a reporter covering the Bucs. Never a dull moment. We can’t even get through the bye week quietly.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Sincerely hope he beats this regardless of his playing career.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Has he just entered the Nfls drug program or has he been there for a while Joe? I was under the impression that he coulda been in it for a while – participation is confidential, right?
September 30th, 2013 at 7:42 pm
FREEMANITES!!!!!!!!! OHHHHHH FREEMANITES!!!!!!!!
Crow tastes good huh?
Oh no It can’t be, it’s all Schiano’s fault!!!
September 30th, 2013 at 7:42 pm
@Buc1987,
Just curious, you still a believer in Schiano? Still think he’s an NFL coach?
September 30th, 2013 at 7:42 pm
what are prayers going to do? that’s just talking to yourself.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:43 pm
If true hope he gets the treatment he needs and the bucs stand behind him in the tough time……obviously its pain killers because wouldn’t the NFL have caught him with urine tests?
September 30th, 2013 at 7:43 pm
This isn’t a football thing anymore. This is a kid who needs to get the demons out so he can function right. I back him 100% in his recovery to getting his life straight. Weather he stays in Tampa or not, I wish him well.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:45 pm
Been rumors of this for a while was wondering how long before it became news
September 30th, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Richard Dawkins you sir are an arse.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Fire greg schiano
September 30th, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Glad he’s getting help.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:47 pm
I hope he’s alright because he seems like a good person. He needs to focus on fixing this right now though and put football aside for now. Hope he bounces back better than ever. Prayers are with you Josh. Also I hope no one knocks him or criticizes him for this because like him as a player or don’t this is bigger than a game this is someone’s life.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:47 pm
Not in rehab. Just Mort saying he’s in stage 1 of the substance abuse program.
Nothing to see here folks.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:48 pm
Hope he gets better, but good riddance, time to move on from the Free era.
Schiano should have let him remain the starter though huh?…
September 30th, 2013 at 7:48 pm
The headline is a little misleading its the nfl drug program and you can be in it will out every having a positive drug test before everyone jumps all over freeman i suggest u go to espn and read the whole article
September 30th, 2013 at 7:49 pm
Worst kept secret in Tampa….that it took Mort to bring it out makes me think the local scribes were scared of speaking truth and didn’t want to get cut off.
Whatever the truth is, go Bucs
September 30th, 2013 at 7:51 pm
SO he missed the kids camp and other things because he has an issue. If he worked ANYWHERE lese he would be out of a job, not collecting millions. SO now he gets benched so NOW he has a problem?
September 30th, 2013 at 7:51 pm
Blah blah fire greg
September 30th, 2013 at 7:52 pm
Hawaiian Buc …once again what can I do about it if he is or isn’t? I’m more than content to give him another 12 more games though. If he leaves sooner oh well. Like I said I don’t call the shots. I just go to the games, holler and bake out in the sun like a baked potato.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:53 pm
Wrong title –
Mort has reported that Freeman is already in stage 1. He’s not “entering” anything.
“Thus, Freeman is in relatively good standing under the program, sources added.”
Joe always harps on posters for not reading everything. Ironic.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:54 pm
Robbie_G…exactly and everyone in here wants us to have sympathy for Josh. The millionaire. I don’t think so. Homie don’t play that. Is Josh going to give me back my $1,300 I spent on season tickets? Feel sorry for me!
September 30th, 2013 at 7:55 pm
I know some people he has hung out with in orlando and always said he was a good dude but they think he really needs help both with substance abuse and mentally to get himself well before this situation turns worse than just wins and loses on the football field, good luck josh
September 30th, 2013 at 7:55 pm
Mort is a true reporter. Where you at Kaufmann, Stroud, Jones, Shelton, Cummings, Deumig, and all the other pretenders. Takes national media to report to us what our local “pen and mic” club allegedly knew but didn’t report to its subscribers. Thanks much. Maybe we need to drop WDAE, WFNZ, Trib and Times and get ESPN just to get the truth.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:56 pm
I got sold a lemon in the offseason. Thanks Dom, thanks Glazers.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Lol he could easily just be taking Vyvanse, ritalin or any other mental stimulant for a condition he may have. Chill out.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Richard Dawkins shut up moron
September 30th, 2013 at 7:58 pm
He does sniff a lot in interviews. His eyes are frequently red. He has slimmed down quite a bit. Coke maybe? I fear Freeman won’t be the only person Schiano gets hooked on drugs. Personally, I may turn to morphine to lessen the pain when our team takes the field.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
@ PR
correct me if im wrong but weren’t you on the fence throughout the Freeman debate? no offense but id rather here that coming from someone who actually picked a side.
as for the crow, it taste delicious… seconds please. all kidding a side, I still think Freeman is talented. there were just to many other factors, imo biggest was his poor decision making, that factored into his demise. but now that its over, its over. he gets no more support from me. I will support Glennon as much as I ever did for freeman because he is now our STARTING qb. same thing goes for the guy that replaces Glennon if it comes to that.
September 30th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Gabriel…do you have anymore excuses left?
September 30th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Wow, there is some really shameful crap being said in this thread. I guess when YOUR child, or brother, or friend actually tries to do something about their mental health or substance abuse issues, you’ll be calling THEM a P.O.S., too?
Very nice.
Walk a mile, people.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:02 pm
I hope its not serious. If it was just a prescription, he might not even be in the treatment stage. Jus the testing. And mortenson said that he could have been placed in stage 1 just for behavior problems. Maybe they figured his actions this past week was reason enough for a drug test.
Get through this Josh! Soon you’ll be out of Tampa and the nightmare that this season has been.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:02 pm
Thanks a lot local “pen and mic” club. Takes national media to report this story.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:02 pm
I have heard its a coke problem from a friend who would know. Makes sense with all the weight he lost so quick
September 30th, 2013 at 8:02 pm
This is not news. He apparently has been in the program and its for a drug that is banned but the NFL is letting him use, which means it is most likely a prescription drug. This is just rude by the bucs organization. How do you leak this kind of info about someone?
September 30th, 2013 at 8:02 pm
“Gabriel…do you have anymore excuses left?”
————
Pot, meet kettle. Buc1987, you are literally the last person in the world that should jump on anyone for making excuses. Seriously dude.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:03 pm
Welcome to the real world…..you can’t go up against a large organization as a disgruntled employee and come out unscathed….expect more targeted news releases that discredit Freeman and gives the Owners/GM/Coach an out in the upcoming days…
Whatever the truth is, go Bucs!
September 30th, 2013 at 8:03 pm
Well I’m calling 1 Buc tomorrow I want better seats in the shade or a free parking pass or I’m not renewing shyte for 2014. I’ll let everyone know how it goes with those assclowns down there that probably knew about this BEFORE I bought my season tickets.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:04 pm
Drug program this week…conversion therapy next week
September 30th, 2013 at 8:05 pm
this is downright PATHETIC for this dude to have to be drug the mud like this…lost all respect for current buc regime, and bet most of the players have, as well. this is gonna get much worse before it gets better.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:06 pm
Coke would also make sense if he hasn’t failed a drug test, gets out of your system very quickly.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:06 pm
Yes Smitty I really do care about Josh Freeman’s fragile mind. I care so much I’d like to tell him to go ef himself in person.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:07 pm
@Young
Why is it Shianos problem Freeman has this issue
September 30th, 2013 at 8:08 pm
I seem to remember another QB that had a substance abuse issue, got help and turned out to be pretty good. Remember Brett Favre? Pain killers almost ruined his career before he turned it around. Not saying Josh is Brett, but getting past something like this could bring out the best in a player…
September 30th, 2013 at 8:09 pm
“bet most of the players have, as well.”
Yah that’s why they did not vote Josh as captain…they are sick of team and not Josh. Whatever.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:10 pm
This is no surprise to many people, myself included. However, I’m generally not one to voice my suspicions about someone’s personal habits, even though Freeman’s lack of focus, restlessness, and sniffling and nose-wiping in press conferences often left me wondering. You can go back and look at some of Raheem Morris’ pressers and wonder, too.
However, Freeman was benched primarily for lack of production and failure to show progress at his position. The reasons for that are irrelevant. That decision had to be made.
This whole thing could be pre-emptive. But, if he does have a serious problem, I hope he gets through it and comes out in top form. There are a lot of distractions when you’re young, single, wealthy, and famous. If he ever gets truly focused, he could be great.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:10 pm
I’ve always been straight forward about it, I didn’t believe he’d turn the corner but was willing to give him this season to do it. As far as my stance..
My stance was “proof me wrong”, and I genuinely wanted him to do that and succeed for our organizations sake. He never did and seems he never will now in Tampa at least.
Your right though, Glennon has my support too and I honestly liked alot of what I saw out of the rook on Sunday. Hopefully he grows and we see more.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:10 pm
Coke? Joe already said that th NFL has given him permission to use this prescription drug! You people need to stop smaring his name before getting the facts! I would lose much respect if our team is responsible for leaking this confidential information. What a mess!
September 30th, 2013 at 8:11 pm
Personal health supersedes everything. Get better Josh.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:12 pm
Anyone knw the glazers email I’m sending my fan resignation…. Not being a bad fan u just get tired of all the crap
September 30th, 2013 at 8:13 pm
I’m a entering a Buc fan abuse program tomorrow…
September 30th, 2013 at 8:14 pm
That was reported, what, a day ago?
September 30th, 2013 at 8:14 pm
Freeman is getting released with no salary for violating league policy. Don’t mess with Bryan and Joel when 6 mil is in play. This is not payback for an interview. Its Business.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:14 pm
“this is downright PATHETIC for this dude to have to be drug the mud like this…lost all respect for current buc regime, and bet most of the players have, as well. this is gonna get much worse before it gets better.”
I agree. Whoever leaked this has fallen lower than they make Freeman out to be. And there is a good chance this leak came from somebody upstairs. I think its fishy how this came out after coach shiano had a rough show on the radio. I was starting to feel sorry for shiano.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:15 pm
Well… I wish the guy the best and hope he can turn his life around. He’s a young person with a future ahead and maybe he can get the help he needs.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:16 pm
lol at religious nuts
September 30th, 2013 at 8:16 pm
He could be taking a prescription drug that is against NFL policy to ween himself off an illicit substance.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:16 pm
“This is not news. He apparently has been in the program and its for a drug that is banned but the NFL is letting him use, which means it is most likely a prescription drug. This is just rude by the bucs organization. How do you leak this kind of info about someone?”
——————
Bucs didn’t leak anything most likely. Read the article. If teams are interested in Freeman, they have the right to know his status in any NFL drug program. That’s where your leak is.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:17 pm
Adderall? If it was adderall, up the dosage.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:17 pm
Was the organization supposed to allow the world to think they were they were
“the bad guys” they were being made out to be in all this???
He’s a grown man and actions carry consequences.
He can deal with the world now knowing, it’s life and it happens.
Hopefully he learns
September 30th, 2013 at 8:18 pm
“I was starting to feel sorry for shiano.”
Stan that’s great. This makes me feel even more sorry for Schiano now though. For having to put up this clown.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:18 pm
Druggies are not victims. They are perpetrators, by their own free will choice. And they don’t just do harm to themselves, either. They harm the people around them who trust them, rely on them and need them to perform 100% as a teammate, co-worker, family member, friend, etc.
Hopefully Freeman kicks the habit and goes on to revive his career and see at least some level of success somewhere. Just don’t want it to be in Tampa. Goodbye and don’t let the door hit you in the ass on the way out.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:19 pm
Snook- thats what Mortensen was reporting on Sunday morning too. I doubt this was a secret amongst the local writers.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:21 pm
Does Richard Dawkins have anything to add to thread? or Is he going to talk smack about 85% of the earths population?
Oh well I guess the minority has a voice somewhere…
September 30th, 2013 at 8:24 pm
Good for freeman to seek help. Hope he comes out on top.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:24 pm
Score one for Shaun King, on this one.
He knew all along there was an addiction problem with Josh, but did not just want to come out and say it.
Joe, please be sure to give Shaun King his Props !
September 30th, 2013 at 8:24 pm
So are we gonna get a Christopher Hitchens to go with our Richard Dawkins?
September 30th, 2013 at 8:25 pm
Snook. You read the article. It says teams are only entitled to know IF he is one strike away. Which the article clearly states he is not.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:25 pm
Right.
Title should read:
“Report: Freeman in NFL drug program”
He’s been in the program. Title and first paragraph gives the impression he just entered it today. Whatever drives traffic to the site I guess.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:26 pm
Gabriel: youre wrong. Go watch the report from Mort.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:26 pm
@Apple Roof is that the same Shaun King that wanted the Bucs to give Josh a contract extension?
September 30th, 2013 at 8:27 pm
BamBam, you may be right. The way he gets sacked all the time, t might be pain killers. And I’ve had a neihbor addicted to oxycodone and got really skinny. I hate speculating, but you may be right.
Well Bucs1987, shiano got grilled by a few callers. One told him he needed to go back to college.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:28 pm
I wonder if this was leaked by the team…… Lose lips Schano
September 30th, 2013 at 8:28 pm
This should come as no surprise to anyone hanging around South Tampa last couple years. #5 hangs around with a VERY immature crowd.
That being said, the title is a little misleading.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Mort said on Sunday that when teams were talking with the Bucs they inquired wether or not Freeman had entered the drug program…
September 30th, 2013 at 8:29 pm
As long as Greg Schiano is the coach, I’m not buying anything this organization is selling. I don’t know what to believe, but I don’t think I’m being off base to suggest that much of this information is being leaked by the team, and I guarantee you with direct knowledge by Schiano. Why aren’t the local media getting any of this “inside information”? Where are the sources? This guy just doesn’t get it, and he never will.
I’ll put my house on the line that Schiano won’t answer ANY questions about this situation either. This guy is a sleeze. I wanted Freeman benched for his play, but it is painfully obvious that Freeman isn’t the problem (certainly not the only problem). There is no way he still has this locker room. Have you heard one player come out and defend Schiano? Even one? I haven’t. Nothing but cliches, because that’s all he allows them to say. I just hope McCoy, Jackson, Revis, etc. goes to the front office and tells them he’s got to go. It’s got to be a big dog, or they’ll be cut instantly once Schiano finds out (or he’ll leak that they are on drugs). Hell, he may even cut the big dogs. Can’t put anything past him.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:30 pm
just because a large percent of the population believes in something doesn’t make it true.
99.9% percent of the population once believed the earth was flat and revolved around the sun(even fiction novels such as the bible).
when people stop praying and start doing maybe we will see some progress in the world.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:30 pm
There it is! Had to be more to this story. It’s going to take years to get the Rah out of this team.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:30 pm
“Bucs didn’t leak anything most likely. Read the article. If teams are interested in Freeman, they have the right to know his status in any NFL drug program. That’s where your leak is.”
They only have the right to know if he’s 1 step away from suspension. Which he isn’t.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:30 pm
Island Stan …many people have been saying that he needs to go back to college. So that’s no surprise since Steve Duemig has been saying for weeks now broadcasting it over TB area radio.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
I’m going to wait and find out more before I judge Freeman on this issue. Imagine that – actually waiting on facts before forming an opinion!
September 30th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
Richard…then start doing then.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
“An NFL club that has contacted another NFL club with regard to a potential
acquisition of a player in a trade and is considering making the
club an offer for such player may be informed by the Medical Advisor or the Management Council whether such player is subject to suspension the next time he fails to comply with any terms of the Intervention Program and whether or not in the opinion of the Medical Advisor or the Management Council a failure to comply with the terms of the Intervention Program has occurred at the time of the inquiry that could result in suspension. ”
They can only know if he is close to being suspended. Straight from the NFL drug policy documentation. You’re wrong.
Source: http://images.nflplayers.com/mediaResources/files/PDFs/PlayerDevelopment/2010%20Drug%20Policy.pdf
September 30th, 2013 at 8:34 pm
The fact the NFLPA is apparently going to go nuclear over the leak tells you that its a fact he’s in the program. Its supposed to be confidential, so clearly he is in it. That’s not a rumour, that’s a fact.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:35 pm
Whats to judge? This confirms all the drug rumors that have been swirling for years.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:36 pm
Open ur eyes focus now fire schiano
September 30th, 2013 at 8:36 pm
I’m a season tix holder and huge Bucs fan but this smells like a classic disinformation campaign to deflect attention from the losing record since mid last season. Jobs are on the line at multiple levels.
Whatever the truth is, go Bucs!
September 30th, 2013 at 8:36 pm
Richard Dawkins, you need to try DMT. Or Ayauasca. You’ll be a believer then. I garuntee.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
Richard Dawkins your comment makes little sense. Praying for someone is a gesture to help them get the confidence to over one adversity in their life weather religious or not. Once again my prayers go to Josh. And once again you sir are an arse.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
This isn’t a rehab program? He’s not in the program for an addiction? Hell, I’m in a drug program myself, testing new drugs for my diabetes. This report is misleading and a red herring. It’s even stated he applied to take a banned drug. He could have adult ADHD. Last I checked that wasn’t a crime in society. He’s probably in the program so they can find the right medication and dosage that fits him. This is very misleading and I( think purposely done by the media and Joe. I haven’t read any comments yet but I bet people are reacting like Josh has committed a crime or something.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:38 pm
Meant over come
September 30th, 2013 at 8:38 pm
I wish Josh nothing but the best if this is true.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:39 pm
Schiano and Dominik wont save their jobs by leaking this, they are as good as gone already.
As the PFT article states, the line of people who might have known about this starts at the left. It could be any number of people outside the Bucs rank and file.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:39 pm
cable/internet went out Sunday so i didnt get to watch the bucs game except for the last five minutes. can anyone give me any insight as to how Glennon looked. did he look nervous? was he widely inaccurate? any insight would be much appreciated.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:40 pm
I was going to go to the 11-11 MNF game, watch Sapp’s jerey get retired. But theres no way I’m wasting my money on this circus.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:41 pm
All I want to know right now is how long he’s been in the program. What for, really does not matter to me. I want to know how long the organization knew about this.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:41 pm
@Joe would u want bridgewater or hundley?
September 30th, 2013 at 8:42 pm
Hey Richard, could you do us all a favor and smash your computer?
September 30th, 2013 at 8:42 pm
I can only offer conjecture,
Joe can’t sanction anonymous reports of Freeman’s leisure time whereabouts. –Joe
Would explain the whole “my alarm didn’t go off…” excuse he gave for missing the team photo.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:42 pm
@ Andrew 1. He looked solid 1st half. But as game wore on his inaccuracy showed. Also when he had to make a play did not look comfortable at all. Basically he looked like a rookie. Just needs time to get more comfortable. But offense needs to adapt or we’ll never be out of this rut
September 30th, 2013 at 8:43 pm
I’m telling you right now where this is going: They aren’t going to trade Freeman, mostly because they won’t be able to get squat for him. They’ve known this for a while. If I knew it and have been saying it, then I’m pretty sure they do. Nobody is taking that contract for an inaccurate QB with lots of baggage. So how do the Bucs get out of that contract? Can’t cut him, but you can Keyshawn him. Leak some info to the media, so that it’s very obvious to Freeman where the leak is coming from. Smear him, embarrass him, and demote him. Wait for a little reaction from him, then suspend him indefinitely. It’s a college coach move, from a college coach.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:43 pm
@buc1987 it does not matter how long he has been in on it. It is not anyones business except Freeman’s.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:43 pm
Gabriel: youre a moron.
They have to inform them if he’s eligible for suspension “next time”. There cant be a ” next time” unless theres a first time.
So by answering the question, it reveals whether or not he’s in the program.
Derrrrrrr.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:43 pm
i’m actually posting from a smart phone. a product of science, not bronze age religion.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:45 pm
@islandstan ayausaca lol
September 30th, 2013 at 8:48 pm
thanks Gabriel. glad to hear there were some positives from him
September 30th, 2013 at 8:48 pm
Prayers are with him and we need to show support.
That said maybe just maybe the players knew and coaches assumed and understood that affected team and performance. Back off coach and let’s get this offense fixed it we will be hard to stop.
Tell big dog stop crying cause schiano doesn’t kids media butt
September 30th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
A lot of you guys can’ t read. Joe you should be ashamed of yourself. Horrible, horrible title
September 30th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
funny how the local media rather burn the coach and organization than actually report the truth instead they pick the players side and hide their secrets because they give them info and the stories..LEECHES!!!
September 30th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
Gabriel Vargas…it matters to me a season ticket holder how long the organization knew about this. Maybe not you, but for me it matters a whoe lot how long they knew about this. I doubt the public will find that info out though.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
Freeman should’ve acted like a professional and none of this would be happening. He wanted to throw a fit, stomp around like a child and try to force the Bucs’ hand to get his way. Then his agent got into it by calling Schiano a liar. He and his agent asked for all this.
You mess with the bull, you get the horns. Nothing left now but the crying.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:50 pm
Richard Dawkins is trolling guys. Let it go, he’ll go away.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:51 pm
@ Richard Dawkins
@ Bucs1987
@ Island Stan
@ blackmagic00
With all due respect, this is a Tampa Bay Buccaneers blog. Nothing will derail a thread and lead to pointless name-calling and useless debate faster than arguing religious or political views.
Most people visit sites like this to escape that kind of stuff and focus on their favorite sport and favorite team.
In the early days of this blog, the Joe’s used to make political references that I think they soon realized might alienate half of their potential readers, and to their credit, they stopped doing that.
There are thousands of online forums for arguing faith, lack of faith, belief, science, religion, atheism, humanism, reason, the futility of religion, prayer as an appeal to God, prayer as merely therapy, prayer versus action, etc.
This isn’t one of those forums.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:52 pm
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/09/29/report-teams-doing-homework-on-freeman/
From YESTERDAY. Read the 2nd paragraph VERY slowly.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:52 pm
Obviously, this was leaked by the Bucs. What scumbags.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:53 pm
SOMEONE ANSWER ME!!!!
It’s not a rehab program? He’s not in the program for an addiction?
I’m in a drug program myself, testing new drugs for my diabetes. This
report is misleading and a red herring. It’s even stated he applied to take a
banned drug. He could have adult ADHD. He could have HBP and needs the right meds to maintain it. Last I checked none of this is a crime in society.
He’s probably in the program so they can find the right medication and dosage that fits him. This is very misleading and I( think purposely done by the media and Joe. I haven’t read any comments yet but I bet people are reacting like Josh has committed a crime or something.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:54 pm
If they jettisoned V. Jackson, then every single one of the 2012 free agent signings will have been BUSTS. Wright = gone, Jackson would be gone, Nicks is likely damaged goods. God damn I’m sick of this team abusing us all.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:54 pm
Snook. Mort specifically said he is not One strike away. He would need to be for teams to be entitled to that info. Hes not. Bucs leaked the info.
buc1987 Yes well a player can be in Stage 1 for a “max” of 90 days unless the Medical Director and Advisor agree to extend to 6 months. Apparently it is a rare occurence for it to go above 6 months but it can potentially. Hope that helps.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:56 pm
He’s not in rehab ^^^^^^
September 30th, 2013 at 8:56 pm
Dallas you are correct sir
But irregardless,
Seems Freeman must be the only person that doesn’t live in a world where your actions carry consequences.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:56 pm
“i’m actually posting from a smart phone. a product of science, not bronze age religion.”
yes, but prove to me that your voice and text messages are not carried through the airs by invisible cellular angels. if theyre invisible, you cant prove they dont exist now can you.
I choose to believe in invisible cellular angels.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:57 pm
Richard Dawkins I’m typing from a smartphone as well. Only mine let’s me type what I feel and know, not just what I’ve been told by science. See Mr. Dawkins, there is more to the world than science, there’s also hope and faith. Mr. Dawkins quit being an arse. Don’t worry Freeman is pretty much done in Tampa.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:57 pm
Pewter and Red …probably and what if’s and or buts is your speculation. You don’t know any more than the reast of us right now, but go ahead protect him and speculate all you want. Just like the rest of us. We are just speculating. Some just choose not to give him the benefit of the doubt.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
snook READ THE OFFICIAL NFL DRUG POLICY DOCUMENT. I do not care about PFT quoting Mort quoting some other source.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
Gabriel: read the pft link. This is old news.
And why would the Bucs leak info damaging a player they very much want to trade?
Morons around here.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
First thing is my prayers go out to Free; stay strong and beat this thing.
Second, I am blown away. Boomer Esiason called this last year. And everyone said no way, including Joe. It was said, Free is a dedicated hard worker, etc. I drank the Kool-aid too. Just goes to show, it always seems where there is smoke (Boomer) there is fire. Sad.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
According to ESPN, he has never failed a drug test and gets random tests more often then most. Sounds like the odds of him being an “addict” is lower than most.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
Seriously, some you guys should actually read.
September 30th, 2013 at 8:59 pm
Before the liars and anklebiters start to run with this, you should read for yourself. A link is provided for your enlightenment.
Freeman has obtained a temporary use exemption for a prescription drug that normally would be on the banned list and as such he is required to be in Stage 1 for monitoring. Nobody knows why he has requested this exemption, but Freeman has not had any incidents that have placed him in jeopardy of suspension, such as a positive test of a banned street-drug substance.
Thus, Freeman is in relatively good standing under the NFL drug policy. Teams that are interested in acquiring Freeman are entitled to know his status only if he is one strike away from a suspension and that is NOT the case here.
http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/9750827/sources-josh-freeman-tampa-bay-buccaneers-nfl-drug-program-not-danger-suspension
September 30th, 2013 at 9:01 pm
“SOMEONE ANSWER ME!!!!
It’s not a rehab program? He’s not in the program for an addiction?
I’m in a drug program myself, testing new drugs for my diabetes. This
report is misleading and a red herring. It’s even stated he applied to take a
banned drug. He could have adult ADHD. He could have HBP and needs the right meds to maintain it. Last I checked none of this is a crime in society.
He’s probably in the program so they can find the right medication and dosage that fits him. This is very misleading and I( think purposely done by the media and Joe. I haven’t read any comments yet but I bet people are reacting like Josh has committed a crime or something.”
Well I dont see where he “applied to take abanned drug”. The article I’m reading stated that he was approved for “the temporary use exemption of the prescription drug.” But I need to read the PFT article.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:01 pm
Snook. I wonder why they would do this. Maybe it’s because this staff has lost 9 out of the last 10 games? This was supposed to be a WIN NOW year and we are now basically out of playoff contention. This is classic get the fans looking elsewhere PR move. They don’t care what they get by trading him because NO team would want to trade for him right now. Not with his salary. So this is just I believe schiano tearing Freeman down to make himself look better.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:02 pm
Illuminati…I’m not bothering anymore with him, but good try though. I doesn’t look like others will cease.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:02 pm
@ Pewter and Red
I don’t think people can answer you because we don’t know the facts.
He could be in Stage 1 for no other reason than simply missing a drug test.
He could have an exemption for a banned substance either for some medical issue, or because that substance is used as treatment for the abuse of another substance.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Everyone is ignoring the bigger problem. You think it’s a coincidence that every day something new comes out about Freeman? Do you not realize that it is being leaked by Schiano? Do you not realize how badly this is going to end? You don’t think the players are talking about it? You think Schiano still has a hold of that locker room? A revolt is coming, and it’s going to be very ugly. This is only the beginning.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
ADHD medication … same as Talib who is also in the program for his ADHD
September 30th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Island. Stage One can mean a number of things. It could be he failed a test. Could be a self referral. You can be in Stage one and not need any rehab. They might just be monitoring you. We don’t know the specifics but it sounds like Freeman is not in the rehab part of it. But I honestly do not know.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Gabriel:
The rumors were already out there. Where have you been? Rumors about Josh having some sort of drug problem have been around for at least a year.
Schiano is a douchebag but leaking information about Freeman doesn’t do anything for him. Or the Bucs. It only hurts the Bucs.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:04 pm
You know Talib and Wright may have stolen Freemans scripts. Hahaha.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:04 pm
@ Macabee
well that clears things up. reading this and the comments I came away thinking he was a junkie. thanks for clarifying.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:04 pm
“the NFLPA will be “coming after everyone” to determine who violated the confidentiality provisions by leaking news of Freeman’s status to Mortensen.”
Just what we need, another ring for our circus!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:04 pm
Lol oh goodness
When his personal “business” impacts his professional business and those around him it becomes their business by default.
Again actions carry consequences.
Deal with it
September 30th, 2013 at 9:04 pm
Stranger how much do you know about addiction? There are plenty of drugs that you can be addicted to and not fail tests. Addicts are experts at hiding their tracks, its part and parcel to being an addict.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:05 pm
THIS HAS BEEN NEWS SINCE LAST SEASON! Freeman loves to party..a lot. You people are acting like this is just something new.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:06 pm
@Island Stan
No, they are just monitoring him for whatever reason. Being in phase one means he’s also tested more frequently than normal. He is taking a banned prescription drug, but has gone through all the proper channels to get permission to do so.
In order words, they could just be monitoring him while he takes his medication.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:06 pm
I agree with you Hawaiian although I think there are other forces at work to get him ousted along with his own pig-headed decisions.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Well its time for the heads at one buc place to pick their fall guy. My money’s on the coach. What a mess!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:07 pm
And do you all notice how the focus of the next two weeks is going to be Freeman, instead of our 0-4 start? Notice how Schiano’s seat is not as hot, because he’s had to deal with a (alleged) drug abuser? Even when Freeman doesn’t play, he is still the focus of the blame. He’s being a cry baby, he’s on drugs, he’s missing meetings, he’s not talking to the local media, he’s a distraction. The real problem is being deflected away. The real problem is the leader of this team, Mr. Schiano. Nobody is talking about how he trusted a rookie to throw the ball, up 7, backed up near his own end zone – yet didn’t trust a veteran, up 1, with the ball at the Saints 30. I guess its still all about #5.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
hope and faith or stem cell research?
one of these is a potential cure to cancer
i know what i’m going to invest my time in.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
Bucs1987
Ok loud mouth….. prove to me Josh is on drugs!! and don’t say this because this proved nothing and he’s not in any rehab.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:09 pm
Thanks for the conspiracy theory
September 30th, 2013 at 9:09 pm
Mort could have easily got this from sources outside One Buc.
First he finds out teams are asking about his drug status, then he asks someone deep inside the league office if he can confirm Freeman is not in the program. Inside source replies with a wink and a nudge and says no Mort, I can’t confirm that.
Plus, hasn’t Adam Schefter reported all the breaking news that seemed to come from either Dominik or Schiano? Revis signing, Freeman benching, etc.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:10 pm
and…if he was taking a prescription for adhd…what the hell is doing being a starting qb in the nfl?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:10 pm
“Being in phase one means he’s also tested more frequently than normal.”
According to PFT, being in phase 1 could also just mean that he missed a test. Maybe slept throught it! Joking!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:10 pm
I’d take a drug abusing Freeman any day over having to endure one more day of the Schiano order. And I don’t even like Freeman as our QB. If we don’t get rid of this guy, next thing you know, we’ll lose McCoy, Martin, Revis, Jackson, and anyone else who never played at Rutgers.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:10 pm
@Hawaiian Buc
Lol …..That’s the same exact thing RBellBuc has been saying all day.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
Hawaiian you are crazy if you think this takes heat off Schiano, if anything it brings more media attention and thus more scrutiny and heat.
I’ve said it before above, Domink and Schiano are deadmen walking. This changes absolutely nothing.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
I think it just has to do with the fact that it helps Schiano distract from bad play on the field. And also maybe Schiano genuinely dislikes Freeman. When people are mad they do stupid stuff. And Schiano definitely comes off as a guy that would do that.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
@Gabriel:
Thanks for the link. You may want to read the portion just above what you copied and pasted:
—————-
“Intervention Program Information, including but not limited to information
learned on appeal, will be shared among Interested Parties only on a need-to know basis and only in accordance with the terms of this Intervention Program.”
—————————–
NEED TO KNOW. Wouldn’t teams interested in Freeman consider his status in or out of the NFL’s drug program as NEED TO KNOW information?
Again… NOTHING TO SEE HERE.
If this had come out before Freeman’s benching or before the trade rumors came out, you’d have a point on the Bucs “leaking” information.
Funny how it only comes out AFTER teams have inquired about him….
Geez. Are we done now?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
@kh
I didn’t say it was impossible, just that the chances are smaller than you or me. The facts are clear, he hasn’t failed a test and gets screen often, at random. The tests aren’t perfect, but they do catch a lot of people. In order words, there’s no reason to jump to the conclusion that this makes him an addict. He could simply be taking something that could potentially be addictive, so they want to keep an eye on him.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
The same thing Talib is doing a starting cornerback moron
September 30th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
Pewter and Red …prove to me different?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Hawaiian – and maybe, just maybe, Schiano hasn’t trusted Freeman because there are far bigger issues with him than when he’s between the white lines.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Well its nice to know this season is already bringing out the worst in everyone’s InfoWars level conspiracies. We’re getting entertained at least even if we suck.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
@flboyindallas
You are 100% correct. Could not agree with you more.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
Wow, you said it. Why is it national guys have been breaking the news on the Bucs ahead of our beat writers? I like our local reporters but they should be the ones breaking this.
So Joe, I guess the rumors you and everyone else were too afraid to talk about is now national news….
September 30th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
funny how Bucs1987 is asking for proof, yet he believes in region – something that has no proof or evidence to back it up whatsoever.
hypocrite.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
I do not like schiano at all at this point. The guy just hasn’t adapted. Even our D which has played well has a BUNCH OF HOLES scheme wise. we are just not adapting or changing. and it is the reason we keep losing. I want a tough coach that is willing to put his pride away to make the necessary changes to win. Schiano is not that coach as of now. He can still change but idk.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
prove you different how?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
“Petitioned the NFL to take a banned substance,which has been approved”
Um . Kinda doubt it’s cocaine guys. Don’t really see Godell giving him a waiver to do snort!!
Probably some kinda sedative- so he doesn’t choke Schiano .
Why has Glennon been taking half of the snaps in practice, since preseason?
No wonder the offense can’t get in rhythm!!!!
This smear Tactic BS is more desperate lil college tactics, from a small college coach- trying desperately to keep a job he doesn’t know how to do.
Nothing but BS and girlish Drama!
No one player caused this team to be 0-4, and so horribly pathetic!
No one player has cost us three of these games , in the last 5 minutes- due to stupid play calling.
But one Coach did!! Schiano can try to smear this kid all he wants- but sounds like almost everyone here has figured it out!!!!
Josh won 10 games in his second season.
Schiano will be lucky to win one
September 30th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
Stranger – add this to the rumors that have been around for years, the bizarre phone interview, reports of being habitually late and it certainly paints a picture that points to me.
Again, passing drugs tests is nothing, A-Rod still hasn’t failed a drug test for god sakes.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
I think coach schiano leaked this. He thought it would tak the attention off, but he’s going to get heat from the NFLPA. This story should not be public!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Dont trade him, keep him on the team restructure his deal and see if he can rebound. He has the talent
September 30th, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Seriously Gabriel…
Re-read the part you even pasted:
“…informed by the Medical Advisor or the Management Council whether
such player is subject to suspension the next time he fails to comply with any terms of the Intervention Program and whether or not in the opinion of the Medical Advisor or the Management Council a failure to comply with the terms of the Intervention Program has occurred at the time of the inquiry that could result in suspension.”
If an NFL team doesn’t already know if a player is in the program, why would they be asking if the player is subject to suspension the “next time” the player fails to comply? Also, why would they be asking the Medical Advisor if the failure to comply could result in suspension?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:17 pm
Pewter and Red …like I said before your speculating just like the rest of us. You mentioned ADHD and all that other nonsense, when you have no proof that it is. Your just speculating. So I have my specualtion you have yours. Pipe down.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:18 pm
Another reason not failing drug tests is not proof he’s 100% clean.
We know Von Miller was paying off the NFL collector (who was Von Miller jock-sniffer) to substitute his urine.
Was he the only one doing that? Doubtful
September 30th, 2013 at 9:19 pm
snook:
“will be shared among Interested Parties only on a need-to know basis and only in accordance with the terms of this Intervention Program”
Only in accordance with the terms… Only if he’s one strike from a suspension!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:19 pm
Richard Dawkins stem cell research started with hope and faith. Sorry, but if it wasn’t for human mankind hoping, then we would all be in the grave sooner than later.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
Snook I imagine it would go like this.
“Hey Dom whats the story on Freeman? is he on the block?”
“Yeah”
“IS there anything we should know? Is he at risk to be suspended?”
“No ”
“What are you looking for?”
“Blah round pick”
End bad scene.
They can ask if he is at risk to be suspended not if he is in the program. It is not like they have a sheet of EVERY NFL player in the drug program.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
@kh,
Do me a favor. Watch Schiano’s next press conference. Just wait and see how many questions are about anything other than Freeman. There’s going to be heat regardless, and it will be a miracle if he keeps his job at this rate, but it absolutely DEFLECTS the criticism. That’s what he’s trying to do. He’s hoping the fans, media, and other players rally behind him (playing the victim card). I was totally on board with starting Glennon, and still believe he deserves to start against Philly, but this problem is beyond the starting QB. Read the article on Pewter Report about Schiano being responsible. Read it and tell me what you think.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
Wonderlic scores and combine drug tests are also supposed to be confidential but they get leaked to Mort and Co. every year, possibly by the same NFL sources.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
I’m so sick of you people saying “fire schiano” when this was not his fault here! I mean what is wrong with you?? If he knew about it, you know damn well that the team knew about it. He was missing meetings, team photo, and he missed two other recent team meetings. I mean come on guys wake up seriously. Schiano is more of a defensive coach and he’s doing well with it!! Lay off the guy seriously! He’s being out into a hard position, and you guys don’t even know the whole story….not even a quarter of what has been going on here. Drop it!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
Wow I can say this its sad that So many can’t read he is voluntarily in the program because he is on a prescribed medication on the banned list. Meaning he is under a doctors care to treat him we don’t know what it is. We immediately believe the worst what ever it is the league medical director are treating him. If the Bucs helped get this to deflect from the fact they are just as poor a product on the field with out Josh at QB. If it was substance abuse thing don’t you think the Bucks would have cut him and invoke conduct detrimental to the league clause in all players contracts to void guarantee money. They would have done so.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
Ignore Richard Dawkins.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
Island:
Says nothing about “strikes.” Go read the document Gabriel posted.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:22 pm
If he’s taking something theraputic but that’s banned by the NFL, he’s probably taking multiple head to head shots from his brother to get through this mess!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:22 pm
@ Hawaiian Buc
I seriously doubt that this is some sort of cloak-and-dagger attempt by Schiano or anyone else within the organization to undermine Freeman.
In fact, I’m pretty sure the organization has acted to protect Freeman up until now.
But when a guy is open for trade, a lot of other teams start doing their due diligence and digging into everything they can find out about that guy. You can bet that there are a whole lot more teams interested in Freeman than you think, so there’s a lot of snooping around going on.
In the process of all that investigation, which involves dozens if not hundreds of people from multiple teams when it’s a young former first-round draft pick QB at stake, stuff is going to leak out.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:22 pm
Mr. Dawkins can we agree to disagree please I’m more concerned about the state of this franchise. I’m kind of seeing 2 wins or less and that’s pretty depressing considering what was supposed to be.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:24 pm
This has been turned from a Pro football team, into a teen gossip magazine.
It’s humiliating and an embarrassment.
The a Glazers are professionals.
How long do they let this childish nonsense continue
September 30th, 2013 at 9:24 pm
1987
You’re speculation is more devious and damning to Josh. Ok he’s had his troubles at QB but he has never been out of line. Why must you think the worst of him when it clearly says he’s not in a rehab program?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:24 pm
This is giving me headache. Watch out folks! The circus is here to stay!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:25 pm
Doesn’t it seem a little odd that there are any reports of this nature now, after Freeman gets benched? Either HawaiianBuc is right, or Schiano knew & confirmed that Josh had a problem; thus, it was easy to convince Dominik & the Glazers to give him the boot, what with his sub par QB play, missing meetings, etc. If it’s the latter, that truth will come out eventually. If it’s the former, I don’t know, that wouldn’t be unbelievable entirely, but probably unlikely. Either way, it’s officially time to move on, unless Mort’s report is completely false, which we know it isn’t.
So, the Glennon era is here to stay, barring injury to the big guy. And his frame does seem a bit fragile, but I am not wishing for anything other than his good health & his extremely healthy progression as the Buc’s starting QB.
I have to admit, though, he does remind me of Napoleon Dynamite, which is funny, & Big Bird. Sorry, Mike, but you’re gonna now have to learn to get used to that kind of stuff in your position & in Tampa; Bucs fans are relentless, more so since the Super Bowl year as I knew they would be. Hey, no pressure, rookie, just win; it’s not just your HC’s & GM’s jobs on the line.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:25 pm
1987 …thanks for confirming that you are a POS
freeman is still a franchise QB , and the best we ever had….this just means somebody will get a great player… Good luck to you josh. I have been drug free for 25 yrs , so you can do it brother…. Lol@ the classless haters
FIRE SCHIANO !
September 30th, 2013 at 9:25 pm
@Buc1987,
Problem is, your speculation always slams the person you are currently placing the blame upon (the last couple weeks it’s been Freeman, while before he was a great QB and guy. Now you are speculating that he parties a lot, and everyone knows it). Your speculation is biased, and we all know it. You love Schiano, and no matter what he does, you will defend him and blame others. That’s your play, and it’s your only play until you run out of excuses. Open your eyes and see what’s really going on here. It doesn’t mean you arent’ a fan if you see the big picture. But if you don’t, it means you are incredibly naive, and eventually going to be embarrassingly wrong. Trust me – this is coming from someone who defended Raheem, as well as Schiano all of last year.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:25 pm
@Kh
Him being in a drug program for NOT failing a drug test, where he has yet to fail a drug test, doesn’t lead me to believe he’s an addict. Especially when those rumors mean shit to me. Also, Blount was also rumored to be late all the time. Yet, the Patriots have no issues with him running over the Falcons.
And A-Rod had the help of an organized system for PED, while no one suspected him (formally at least). Most addicts do not have that luxury.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:26 pm
Richard Dawkins is a troll if I’ve ever seen one
Lol trying to hijack the thread with debate about religion.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:28 pm
@Illuminati,
Really? You don’t believe some of this info has been leaked by the team? More power to you I guess.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:28 pm
“But when a guy is open for trade, a lot of other teams start doing their due diligence and digging into everything they can find out about that guy. You can bet that there are a whole lot more teams interested in Freeman than you think, so there’s a lot of snooping around going on.
In the process of all that investigation, which involves dozens if not hundreds of people from multiple teams when it’s a young former first-round draft pick QB at stake, stuff is going to leak out.”
Good Point.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:29 pm
Hawaiian – first off, I’m not defending Schiano, I would fire him tonight if I were the Glazers and promote Wannstedt like PR suggested. This debacle is 100% all on him and Dominik by extension.
I just dont see this taking criticism away from Schiano, the 0-4 record and 1-9 in the last 10 shines a massive spotlight that this can’t dim. I am positive Schiano would rather the Bucs be 0-4 and not have the circus/media attention this story will bring.
There’s no way anyone is going to rally around Schiano because of this. He will be fired sooner than later because we continue to be pathetic and fans will stop showing up and the Glazers will have no choice.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:29 pm
Pewter and Red …because the drug problem rumor has been swirling for almost a year now. That’s why. It was just a rumor though and now this.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
BUT, Illiminati, this story was pushed on the radio the day right after we benched Josh. So that could have started it all. And the NFLPA won’t overlook that.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
So according to some of you, a team could trade for a guy who’s in the drug program and not even know it because the other team isn’t allowed to disclose that?
Dont you see how dumb that sounds????
September 30th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
at first glance it does seem like the front office leaked it, but one never knows. you know what they say about assumptions.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:31 pm
It’s a shame this info was leaked. The smear campaign on Freeman is ridiculous and it’s obvious the media is trying to run Schiano out of town(deservedly so or not). I really hope whoever is responsible for this leak is held accountable and I wish the best for Freeman, ADHD or cocaine habit.
PS.Has nobody here ever heard of Richard Dawkins?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:32 pm
Sure some of the information about Freeman has been leaked by the Bucs, but conversely isn’t it equally ridiculous to suggest that every story about Freeman comes from the team?
Josh is at least partly responsible for this blowing up into a big story like FLBoyinDallas said. When it becomes a big story the big NFL reporters start digging in a rush to get breaking news like this that explains the story.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:33 pm
On the way back to my car yesterday. I was waiting to cross MLK. At the intersection there was group of guys talking about Josh doing lines at Mons Venus. They were just joking around, but one of them said to the rest of us. “Just go there after the game, you’ll see him there all coked up.” I’m not saying that it is the white stuff, I’m just telling you what the conversation was at the corner of MLK and Himes. That was before this came out today.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:33 pm
This shows exactly why Tampa is a laughing stock…..the article specifically stated you don’t have to have a positive drug test and he’s in the lowest stage. We’ve known this kid for 4 years and a P.O.S like schiano gets here that no one knows and does this.. it’s funny but pathetic how so many people are ready to crucify this kid, saying dumb sh!t like Freeman needs to grow up….well he’s a Damn kid but who is saying that about grey beard schiano, I bet more than half of you nuts with nothing better to do but bash some public figure are judging Freeman because your Damn drug addicts but you can’t hide it because your nobody and only a few people know it. Leaking things private is against rules. Nobody knew anything about eight, talib, or tanard other than they were suspended. He didn’t play but your team still sucks and your wasting time talking about someone that’ll never throw a pass for us ever again, some Damn people are so easily distracted that it’s becoming embarrassing to say I’m from Tampa, take your things out of your butt, smell it, wash your hands and move on to the real issue which is the state of the franchise not one player
September 30th, 2013 at 9:34 pm
“PS.Has nobody here ever heard of Richard Dawkins?”
Isn’t he the guy who scissors Mrs Garrison on South Park?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Doubtful it’s a smear campaign by the organization. Publicizing behavioral issues lessens the trade value of a player. If Schiano wanted him gone as badly as some of allege, it’s doubtful he would be poisoning the well with potential suitors. It appears these leaks may have been orchestrated by other teams in order to drive down his value so that either he will be cut or the team will be forced to trade him for much less than his current value.
This story was released by Mortenson yesterday but the talking points from the organization were that his banishment was due to multiple missed meetings. This story was purposely buried….
The issue sadly is Freeman has done it to himself. He is really the only person who has control over his own destiny.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:35 pm
@ kh
Which white lines?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:35 pm
What about this? This proves nothing. He entered into the NFL drug program and asked for special permission to take a prescription drug. He was not entered in a rehab program by the NFL or the Bucs. He has no prior failed mandatory NFL drug test. You are acting like an @ss who has an axe to grind.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:36 pm
to 19987^^^
September 30th, 2013 at 9:36 pm
yea because we know all the top notch reporting comes at the corner of MLK and Himes. comon dude.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:36 pm
Hope the best for the guy. I wish the organization would stop all this shizz and cut him or something. It’s just humiliating at this point. It’s the best for the team and josh. He should be allowed to work out his problems in private and we can finally move on.
Best of luck to Josh Freeman.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:37 pm
I hope Josh gets his redemption. The NFL has approved his prescribed medication, yet we jump to conclusions like he’s a junkie and smear his name in the dirt.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:37 pm
@Illumanati – that pun was intentional, at least someone is paying attention here.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:38 pm
What this really means is Schiano isn’t going anywhere, unless they are winless; so, he’ll get his 3rd year to right the ship. That is, of course, conflicting, negative reports come out about Schiano. It’s going to be a long, brutal ride, Bucs fans; just brace yourselves for the worst!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:38 pm
@ Hawaiian Buc
I didn’t say that. Leaks can come from multiple places when there’s a lot of activity surrounding a player on the trade market.
I’m just doubting the likelihood of any intentional leaks from higher-ups within the Bucs’ organization.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:38 pm
“As for the temporary use exemption of the prescription drug that has been approved for Freeman, sources would not provide the identity of that drug.”
So, what could it be? Some would say adderall, but, why would you only get that temporarily?
What could you get prescribed that would need a temporary exemption for?
Methadone??
If he does have a substance abuse problem, that’s the only drug I can think of that would be temporarily prescribed. Like to ween off Oxys/Roxies.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:38 pm
I love how gossip automatically becomes fact.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:39 pm
The slurring speech on radio interviews, not showing up for kids camp, the team photo, sniffling and rubbing his nose at the pressers. Of course I’m just speculating though…but all of those are NOT rumors. So people ask me where I get my speculation from? Hmm I don’t know.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:39 pm
The most hilarious thing is some of you act like you know Josh because “he’s been here for 4 years”. Uh yeah, Aaron Hernandez was in New England for 4 years and before he became known as a serial killer, I’m guessing 0% of the New England fan base thought he was. No matter how much you think you know these guys, you really don’t know the first thing about them.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:39 pm
@ Island Stan
“Isn’t he the guy who scissors Mrs Garrison on South Park?”
Exactly. By any chance is your last name Marsh?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:39 pm
“If Schiano wanted him gone as badly as some of allege, it’s doubtful he would be poisoning the well with potential suitors.”
But now that the heat has fallen on him, this could be his way of wagging the dog.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:40 pm
JBo$$,
lol.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:40 pm
@ bucrightoff
exactly.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:42 pm
Andrew 1…I’m just relaying what I heard. Meaning it’s been being talked about for awhile now.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:43 pm
@Buc1987
Right, those aren’t rumors. But they also don’t have to be tied to one single thing. Life is more complicated then tying everything with one, cocaine laced bow.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:43 pm
There is a lot of pressure being a franchise QB in the NFL. Everyone is not mentally strong enough. Josh might have used coke to get his mind off of it all. Regardless, his time is done in Tampa Bay as a QB, but he is young and needs to focus on turning his life around. There is more to life than football, money, and silly immature “FAKE”-fans who laugh at u when you are down and out in life. Everyone talking SH!T about Josh will have their day of sorrow, if not them than their kids or grand-kids. Watch what you say on these boards and what comes out your mouth. Life is an evolving circle, the SH!T you talk about others will come back to bite you….
September 30th, 2013 at 9:43 pm
Freeman just released a statement. interested to see what it says.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:44 pm
bucrightoff and Andrew…it’s called speculation. No one knows shyte about these players lives.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:44 pm
1987
Lame, like you would even pass that on. Yeah I over heard at the laundry mat yesterday from a couple old ladies that the Muscle Hamster is Mighty Mouse’s lovechild. Doesn’t make it so LMAO!!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:45 pm
1987. Your pathetic dude , I feel sorry for you
September 30th, 2013 at 9:45 pm
@ Bucs1987
yea and Ive also heard at the beginning of all of this it was because he was gay. gossip at its best. people outside the bucs organization dont know sh!t. got to be able to recognize that.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:46 pm
Later
September 30th, 2013 at 9:46 pm
Stranger …if it quacks like a duck…
September 30th, 2013 at 9:46 pm
@kh,
Yeah, I think we are thinking along the same lines. And to be clear, I don’t think the strategy is going to work. He can’t coach, and nothing is going to hide that fact. It could, however, buy him a little more time. He’s probably very desperate, and looking for someone to take the fall. I, like you, hope it doesn’t work.
And I absolutely do not believe everything is being leaked by the Bucs, and Josh is absolutely to blame for his fair share. I’m not a fan of either, but I’ll take Freeman over Schiano, because at least Freeman doesn’t fold up like an umbrella at the end of the game. Best solution is for both of them to be gone as soon as possible, and here’s to hoping that happens.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:47 pm
BAM freeman confirms it is Ritalin for ADHD. I have the same thing and take vyvanze
September 30th, 2013 at 9:48 pm
Raphael…it is I that feels sorry for you too.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:49 pm
Gabriel Vargas …BAM his career is over. Nobody wants a QB with ADHD.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:49 pm
And just in you wondering i’m specifically talking to JBF.
You’re headline “Josh Freeman enters drug program” then begin the article by saying when this happened is unclear…..whatever pays the bills I guess! Not much criticism aimed at the organization for being classless, schiano for lying. These reports leaking out makes it obvious that he cares more about his image than he does or brand or any of our fans….guess he also failed at winning his player’s trust like he failed at coaching but I forget, other than being the the press conference you don’t do any leg work, you scour the web like a scavenger looking for any kind of news no matter what it is then twist it around. This should have never been made public, even if he’s a Damn crackhead, if a major can get his job back he deserves a shot at a second chance but no these idiots are smearing his name even though they are obviously hoping to trade him. So we’re basically gonna kill the guy in the media then hold the dude until the trade deadline and end up waiting until the to cut him? Who would give up a 7th round pick in like 2020 for him the way all this is coming out
September 30th, 2013 at 9:50 pm
@Bucs1987
Perception isn’t reality. There is always more truth than what you know.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:50 pm
It would be hard to give an intelligible interview early in the morning after being up all night doing coke. Would sound much like it did actually now that I think about it.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:50 pm
Again, why would you only get a temporary exemption for ADHD?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:52 pm
@Buc1987,
I’ve watched pretty much every press conference Josh has ever done, and I’ve never noticed him sniffling or rubbing his nose. Why didn’t you notice that three weeks ago, when you were holding up an “I Love You Josh” poster? Funny how you didn’t “run into” fans saying Freeman gets coked up on the way to that game. Again, go read the article on Pewter Report about Schiano (the one written today, not the one Joe referenced today). Get back to me on how you feel after that. There’s only so many facts you can read without eventually opening your eyes. At least I hope so for your sake. You can keep supporting Schiano all you want, but you are going to be one sad little puppy when that lunatic is fired (cuz believe me, it’s a coming).
September 30th, 2013 at 9:52 pm
You can tell Freeman’s statement isn’t true because of this line in it.
“I agreed to allow such testing to be done at my workplace (team facility) because I spend all of my time there ”
You know if you spent all your time here you probably wouldn’t miss the team picture. Just a guess though.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:53 pm
@Bucs1987
That isn’t true at all.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:53 pm
I hope Freeman takes care of his problems. He’s young and still has the potential to play in the NFL.
The Bucs are a PR mess. If the leak came within the organization, The Glazers need to take a serious look at how their business is handled.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:53 pm
You don’t see changes of behavior like we have with Josh because of ritalin. Ritalin/Adderall is just the canned excuse all players that test positive give because its the most innocuous thing on the banned substance list (see Talib and Eazy-E.)
Whoever leaked the story wont call his bluff name a drug.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:53 pm
Not everybody reacts to adderall the same way. He maybe under supervision to find and change drugs if they don’t have the right effect. Other prescription drugs like Vyvanse, Ritalin, Intuniv, Strattera, etc.. Hence the reason they maybe temporary. If he was on methadone then that means he has an addiction and he would be in rehab to take methadone. Plus he would have faided drug test if he has that bad of an addiction to take methadone.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:54 pm
I should say ritalin/adderall is the canned excuse for players that enter the drug program and not test positive.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:55 pm
If your an NFL team and you knew that Josh Freeman has ADHD would you want him as your starting QB?
That makes more sense now. Like a lot of people say, he’s physically gifted but there’s nothing going on upstairs.
Gabriel does the vyvanze help you?
September 30th, 2013 at 9:58 pm
I asked this before:
Can anyone name prescriptions that you can get that are temporary, which are on the banned list?
Why you you only get ritalin temporarily?
Methadone would be temporary to get off opiates like oxys. Notice the article says he did not test positive for a “street” drug.
He could have a positive test for oxys/roxies and that article would still be accurate.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:59 pm
Some teams might not, other teams may. Hundreds of people have played QB in the NFL, some of them likely had ADHD like Terry Bradshaw. People are more willing to deal with it/help you deal with it once they know for certain.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:59 pm
If it was non news… It wouldn’t be news! Where there is smokes there is fire!
September 30th, 2013 at 9:59 pm
“Again, go read the article on Pewter Report about Schiano”
I watch the games live and make my own assesment. I don’t need to go to PR and have Reynolds or whoever do that for me.
September 30th, 2013 at 9:59 pm
” Why didn’t you notice that three weeks ago, when you were holding up an “I Love You Josh” poster?”
Lol. But how is coke a prescription drug?? And if it were, why would the NFL exempt him from still consuming it??
September 30th, 2013 at 9:59 pm
Adderall is very easily abused too by the way
But any who, I guess we’ll all see in time.
Regardless, can’t wait for this hell of season to pass
September 30th, 2013 at 10:01 pm
@Oil
They probably said street drug because most offenders are there because of weed. They test for what you mention as well.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:02 pm
Geeez what a sh!t show show this site has become, no wonder he won’t talk to local media but all of a sudden major beat writes and analyst are getting all this information but people that actually live here and cover the team? Which is why someone is leaking this information because if they did it locally they wouldn’t still be hidden
September 30th, 2013 at 10:02 pm
Geeez what a sh!t show show this site has become, no wonder he won’t talk to local media but all of a sudden major beat writes and analyst are getting all this information but people that actually live here and cover the team? Which is why someone is leaking this information because if they did it locally they wouldn’t still be hidden
September 30th, 2013 at 10:02 pm
Just like after the Saints game. That’s when Freeman lost my support. No benching or drug rumors or what anyone said in here. I saw the game live from good seats. I already gave up on him way before the Pats game.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:02 pm
I think there’s a lot of misperceptons on how the random drug testing program works. There’s one offseason test and it happens relatively early.
Unless you are complete idiot, you can get around the drug testing program.
http://extras.mnginteractive.com/live/media/site36/2013/0819/20130819_025353_NFL-Drug-Policy.pdf
September 30th, 2013 at 10:03 pm
I wonder if the need for the exemption is why he is in the program? Perhaps as a condition of getting the exemption?
To me that would make all the sense in the world. The bigger question is what medication did he need? Is he bi-polar? Does he have a serious health issue?
Once again the media is stirring things up. They voilate Josh’s rights under HIPPA and now, just to clear his reputation he may be forced to reveal information he should not have to.
It’s dirty reporting. As usual. These reporters need to be held to a higher standard. Maybe the nfl should suspend reporters from having direct access when they cross certain lines.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:03 pm
Actually Richard Dawkins if you read the bible you’d realize that they didn’t think the world was flat. Isaiah 40:22 says “He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth”. If you’re going to criticize something you should actually read it first.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:03 pm
1987
Sure, why not? Having ADHD is no crime. There are many NFL players who are on ADHD medication. In fact there have been a few QBs who have had permission from the NFL for ADHD drugs. One is Ben Rothlisberger. Another is retired and went through alcohol programs and finally was discovered he suffered from ADHD towards the end of his career. Kerry Collins
September 30th, 2013 at 10:07 pm
Bobby: Please prove that a ‘circle’ and a ‘sphere’ are the same thing. Please show your work.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:09 pm
Pewter and Red …well we will just have to wait and see won’t we. Mix ADHD with his regression as a QB and then see how many teams are clamoring for him.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:09 pm
@Oil
Freeman’s statement says he has passed 46 tests while in the program.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:10 pm
@Smitty….are you serious? Are you insinuating it was a flat circle? LOL!
September 30th, 2013 at 10:12 pm
Point is neither are”flat” are they???
Lol Smh
September 30th, 2013 at 10:12 pm
lol Exactly Bobby
September 30th, 2013 at 10:14 pm
I guess what seem people are hoping to believe is that the speculation, that began long before this past month, that he liked to party pretty heavily and this new information is totally unrelated?
That’s it? Just mere coincidence? He has adhd, is in the program, and needs ritalin, and all the South Tampa party smoke are not intertwined whatsoever?
Okie dokie, nothing to see here. Got it.
I’m convinced he could be on celeb rehab AND go on Aaron Hernandez worthy murderizing spree and some of you would be convinced it’s because he didn’t have a great slot receiver.
I love it. Hilarious.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:21 pm
Speculation and rumors aren’t the same thing as being a part of murder. Freeman doesn’t have the local legal system and law enforcement after him, only Schiano and his crew.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:23 pm
This is a completely inaccurate post. I am ashamed of this website that I visit for Bucs news. Get your story straight unless you are trying to be a TMZ tabloid.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:27 pm
“I watch the games live and make my own assesment. I don’t need to go to PR and have Reynolds or whoever do that for me.”
—-
Why not? Then why do you come to Joe Bucs Fan? You don’t want to hear an opinion of someone who is inside the walls nearly every day? You only like to read one side of every story I guess. It’s amazing that you can be so close minded that you won’t even take 10 minutes to read an article. What an embarrassment. Not that it will matter, nothing would change your mind. You’re a joke. I have no respect for anyone who will only listen to one side of the story.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:28 pm
1987
F…. U … you and all your cronies smear campaign is what is hurting Josh’s chances. You’re condescending lies. You speak to me like you have personal knowledge that he abuses drugs. You are a fkn flipper …you are Jonah ..a modern day Benedict Arnold.. @SSWIPE!!
September 30th, 2013 at 10:28 pm
Man, the Freeman partying thing has been around for a long time. Whether you want to believe that this is related, or you want to add ADHD to it, the partying thing has not gone away.
Compound ADHD, partying rumors with missing team meetings, team photo, and the first day of your own youth fb camp.
On top of all that, he is the epitome of inconsistent on the field.
It’s not just one thing. It’s a list of things.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:30 pm
Bobby: A simple Google search for ‘disc’, or ‘plate’ should answer all your geometry needs.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:32 pm
BS^^ a list of a handful of things that have happened across five mother fkn years scumbag
September 30th, 2013 at 10:32 pm
I don’t buy Freeman’s handlers’ statement.
I don’t buy all the other rumors, either, even though I have my own suspicions.
I grew up in an era when NFL players would drink and do gutter glitter all night before a game, and smoke cigarettes on the sidelines during the game.
The only thing that matters to me is his on-field production, which was lacking.
And that is the only reason, ultimately, that he is no longer our starting QB.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:33 pm
I love the excuses. He’s a grown ass man. A rich one at that.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:34 pm
Oil Derrick Brooks: You should also know that Methadone IS used to treat pain in addition to opiate pain relievers…It is not strictly used as an addiction treatment drug.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:37 pm
Yes, name any great QB that has “a list of a handful of things that have happened across five mother fkn years scumbag” similar to Freemans.
Can you think of any?
Real QBs are busting their ass on their off days. Anyone think Russell Wilson has anyone saying anything like this? Hell no.
Some guys are hungry. Some aren’t.
September 30th, 2013 at 10:42 pm
@Smitty
Thanks Smitty. But, I’m not sure how that would be relevant to the question that I posed. I still am trying to think of a prescription that would warrant a temporary exemption. Is “temporary” just a term that they use? Are there “permanent” exemptions?
September 30th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
Oil Derrick Brooks
Kerry Collins @sswipe
September 30th, 2013 at 10:49 pm
Ben Rothlisberger
September 30th, 2013 at 10:51 pm
Kerry Collins, the drunk you mean?
Thanks for the compliment, sweet thing!
September 30th, 2013 at 10:52 pm
Thanks, after you mentioned this, it makes for sense. Yes, Kerry Collins, indeed.
http://alcoholism.about.com/cs/person/l/aa010122a.htm
September 30th, 2013 at 11:01 pm
@Smitty, so they used circle to describe flat…..
Ooooooookkkkkkkkkkkk. Makes perfect sense.
September 30th, 2013 at 11:03 pm
Red and Pewter, I believe you mean Judas. Jonah was swallowed by a whale. Your grammer and spelling are pretty bad too.
I happen to agree that people are misjudging Freeman, but I try to have some class. You should try it because the same hate you accuse others of having? You have it too…just pointed in another direction.
September 30th, 2013 at 11:04 pm
Bobby, you owned him and they can’t admit it. Well done 😉
September 30th, 2013 at 11:20 pm
Nateral:
Please explain what is inaccurate in this post.
September 30th, 2013 at 11:29 pm
@BuccaneerBonzai
Grammar. People who live in glass houses . . .
September 30th, 2013 at 11:31 pm
Bobby: Sorry, I was hopeful that you had graduated high school, maybe taken a geometry class. Go look up the definition of circle.
September 30th, 2013 at 11:33 pm
Of course, you’d have to understand a ‘plane’ to get the point, so don’t hurt yourself.
October 1st, 2013 at 12:23 am
“That ws reporte]d, what, a day ago?”
sure have been cranky as of late.. gotta be one of the overworked interns.
October 1st, 2013 at 12:48 am
Do you guys ever feel embarrassed for being wrong all the time and being so full of hate?
October 1st, 2013 at 10:15 am
So explain how exactly the semantics were played with. It seems that this article’s author was the one playing with semantics and innuendo…