NFL Hall of Famer Champ Bailey has joined the ranks of former players advocating for cannabis as a recovery aid, partnering with Trulieve, a major cannabis retailer. In a recent interview, Bailey discussed his personal cannabis journey, its role in his NFL career, and his efforts to destigmatize its use.
Bailey, a standout cornerback for the Washington Redskins and Denver Broncos, began using cannabis early in his career, primarily for physical and mental recovery. He emphasized that he waited until he was mature enough to responsibly incorporate it into his routine. He explained that cannabis provided a healthier alternative to alcohol or other drugs for managing the demands of professional football.
Bailey's current mission is to challenge the long-held stigma surrounding cannabis use. He believes sharing his personal experience and encouraging others to do the same can help shift public perception. He acknowledges that such conversations would have been impossible a decade ago, but the changing legal landscape and growing acceptance of cannabis are creating new opportunities for dialogue.
Within the diverse environment of an NFL locker room, Bailey observed a range of reactions to cannabis use among his teammates. Initially, some were apprehensive, but as they witnessed its positive effects on performance and recovery, their views often evolved. Bailey stressed the importance of strong leadership and open communication in normalizing cannabis within the team.
During Bailey's playing days, marijuana use was against NFL rules. He described how players would strategically stop using before scheduled drug tests, often hindering their recovery during crucial offseason training periods. He believes the league's strict policies were ultimately a waste of resources and is pleased to see the NFL's evolving stance on cannabis.
Bailey shared an anecdote about a teammate struggling with alcohol who successfully transitioned to cannabis, leading to a long and productive NFL career. He sees this as another example of the potential benefits of cannabis and encourages more athletes to share their stories. He believes his partnership with Trulieve aligns with his mission to educate the public and promote the positive aspects of cannabis use.
