By Scott Anderson
Expected first round pick Randy Gregory admitted that he failed his combine drug test, and has put his draft stock up in the air. The former Nebraska defensive end was projected to go as high as number 2 to the Tennessee Titans, but now his draft stock is in limbo.
One of the main concerns for teams is that before he even touches the field, Gregory is in the NFL’s system and will tested multiple times per month, year round. He can not be around marijuana at any point during his carer. He is now only two positive tests away from a suspension. It also raises some character concerns as this was a test that he knew was coming, and could have easily passed it if he had the self control during the weeks prior to stop.
The one thing that Gregory has in his corner is the experience of Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston. Houston was projected to be selected in the first round of the 2011 Draft, but saw his stock slip due to a failed drug test at the combine. Since entering the league, Houston has had no issues with banned substances, and has recorded 48.5 sacks in his four NFL seasons.
This failed drug test opens the door for Missouri’s Shane Ray, Clemson’s Vic Beasley, and Kentucky’s Bud Dupree who could all be selected in the top 10 as teams look for guys that can get to the quarterback.
In the end, talent still wins out so I still expect Gregory to still be selected in the first round. How long he lasts is an entirely different story.
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