The NFL’s two-game suspension of Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Drake Stoops for violating the league’s performance-enhancing substance policy left many wondering about the specific substance involved. Stoops has since clarified that the violation stemmed from his use of Adderall. He explained that he took the medication to combat drowsiness while driving, acknowledging his lack of a therapeutic use exemption, a requirement for players using Adderall and other prescription drugs on the banned substance list.
Los Angeles Rams WR: “It Was An Honest Mistake”
“It was just an honest mistake,” Stoops told the Oklahoman. “It’s not steroids or anything like that, and I would never try to gain an unfair advantage or cheat the game or the process in any way like that.” This explanation aligns with instances of other NFL players facing suspensions for Adderall use, a stimulant commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
Stoops expressed gratitude for the Rams’ supportive response to the situation. “When I reached out to the Rams, they were nothing but supportive and great about it,” Stoops said. “They’ve had my back the whole entire way, and that means the world to me. So, I’m excited to have that behind me now and go forward and just put my best foot forward.”
Despite a six-year collegiate career at Oklahoma, where his father Bob Stoops was the head coach, Drake Stoops entered the NFL as an undrafted rookie. He earned a spot on the Rams’ practice squad last year and remained with the team throughout the season. While the suspension represents a setback, it will not deter his pursuit of a roster spot this year, with his return slated for Week Three.
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