Despite his talents on the football field, Rolando McClain continues to be haunted and ensnared by his own demons. The Dallas Cowboys’ linebacker was already facing a 10-game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy and according to Bleacher Report, he’s found another drug to cope with the troubles of his personal life.
Codeine, an opioid pain medicine, is used to treat illnesses. However, too much of the drug in question can be highly addictive. Multiple rap artists including Lil Wayne and Two Chains use codeine or “purple drank” to inspire many songs in a southern hip-hop culture. In the same fashion, Texas rap legend Chad “Pimp C” Butler died in December of 2007 from the overuse of codeine.
McClain, who served a suspension last season for violating the substance abuse rule, has been reportedly using codeine and encountering weight gain from it. The overuse of codeine can be fatal, but in McClain’s case, it could also be the final straw for him with the Cowboys.
He’s been solid on the field in the last two season, especially after totaling 97 tackles, two sacks, an interception and a defensive touchdown in 2015. The former Alabama standout has had his share of legal issues, but this situation is starting to take a toll on him.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag
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