The part I have the most issue with is the NFL has zero issue with team doctors prescribing opiates for injuries and pain but refuse to accept weed for pain management. Less damaging in the long run for certain and as someone who had an ex who was on morphine for a back issue, opiates are bad news across the board.
Sadly I think the league believes if weed is used for pain management then players will smoke it recreationally as well. And I say so what, my ex took that morphine recreationally, trust me and I am sure there are players who keep taking opiates long after the need it for pain management.