When NFL fans think about cannabis use among players, the names that often come to mind are former Miami Dolphins running back Ricky Williams and Super Bowl champion Chris Long. Williams and Long have been vocal advocates for using cannabis for various reasons, including pain management. Pro Football Hall of Famer Champ Bailey is also part of a group of former NFL stars supporting cannabis use for physical and mental recovery. Bailey works with Trulieve, the world’s largest cannabis retailer, as a community outreach liaison.
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Champ Bailey partnered with Trulieve. (Truelieve)
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Bailey shared that he joined forces with Trulieve to help them obtain a license in Georgia. Since then, he has been involved in educating the public and changing perceptions about cannabis. Bailey, who played in the NFL from 1999 to 2013, revealed that he began using cannabis early in his career to help with recovery and performance.
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Bailey explained, “I did not consider cannabis a benefit to my health until later in my career. Once I saw other professionals using it and experiencing positive effects, I decided to give it a try. Cannabis helped calm my mind and body, allowing me to perform at my peak in the demanding NFL environment.”
Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) warms up before the start of a game against the Cleveland Browns at Invesco Field in Denver, Colo., Sept. 20, 2009. (Ron Chenoy/USA Today Sports)
Regarding breaking the stigma about cannabis, Bailey believes in sharing personal stories to educate and inspire others. He emphasized the importance of open conversations and encouraged players to explore cannabis use under medical guidance.
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He reflected on the challenges of discussing cannabis use in the NFL locker room. Bailey acknowledged the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of players, as well as the changing perceptions of marijuana over time in society and within the league.
Former professional football player Champ Bailey talks to a fan during a pregame event at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., Sept. 10, 2023. (Brent Skeen/USA Today Sports)
To facilitate change, Bailey emphasized the importance of sharing personal experiences and knowledge about the benefits of cannabis. He believes that by open discussions and dispelling myths, perceptions about cannabis can evolve positively.
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Bailey also touched on the challenges faced by NFL players in the past regarding cannabis use and drug testing. He highlighted the solidarity among players and the efforts made to navigate the stringent rules in place at the time, all while acknowledging the shift in attitudes and policies regarding cannabis use in the NFL.
Champ Bailey before a game between the Las Vegas Raiders and Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colo., Oct. 6, 2024. (Ron Chenoy/Imagn Images)
Bailey concluded by stressing the need for continued dialogue, sharing stories, and educating others about the benefits of cannabis use. He expressed his alignment with Trulieve’s mission to promote understanding and acceptance of cannabis as a positive element in society.
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