Former 49ers linebacker Gregory is suing the Broncos and the NFL for sanctions connected to THC.
A lawsuit was launched against the NFL and the Denver Broncos by a former pass rusher for the 49ers. Randy Gregory filed a lawsuit against the NFL and Denver on Wednesday, using the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act. Gregory was a player for San Francisco in the 2023 season after being acquired from the Broncos. The 31-year-old filed the complaint after receiving a fine of more than $500,000 for using THC since March 2023. Gregory’s attorneys contend in his civil lawsuit that the current linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers requires THC to treat PTSD and social anxiety disorder.
According to the court complaint, “Mr. Gregory requested an accommodation from the NFL and Broncos to consume Dronabinol to treat his disabilities.” In particular, Mr. Gregory tried to take synthetic cannabis, or Dronabinol, during off-peak hours as instructed by his treating physician. Given that THC is a chemical that is subject to federal control, the NFL and the Broncos declined his request.
“Mr. Gregory has paid the NFL $532,500 in penalties for using THC to treat his impairments since he requested an accommodation. Mr. Gregory is required to participate in every game, practice, media sessions, and fulfill his work obligations even in the event of an adverse test result. Put otherwise, he cannot be suspended based only on a positive test result. Prominently, Mr. Gregory’s job benefitted both the NFL and the Broncos.
The NFL does not currently sanction players for using THC, but players who test positive for the drug face fines because it is prohibited.
Despite having to work, Gregory did not receive full salary since the NFL and the Broncos declined his request to use Dronabinol. The defender has 11 total tackles and 2.5 sacks in 12 outings with San Francisco. Gregory is suing for damages “including, but not limited to, repayment of the monetary fines that Mr. Gregory was required to pay including interest to the fullest extent permitted by law in an amount to be determined at trial,” according to the lawsuit. Gregory played in all three of the 49ers’ 2024 postseason games. The complaint does not name San Francisco as a defendant.