Steelers wide receiver Martavis Bryant returns after a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He practiced with the team on Monday. The specifics of Bryant’s violation weren’t revealed, but the four-game suspension means Bryant must have failed multiple drug tests over the 16 months he was in the league, according to excellent Steelers beat writer Mark Kaboly at the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Bryant was sent to Houston to get his habit house in order, where he worked with John Lucas. Lucas is the drug counselor of choice for top notch athletes: he’s been there. Lucas is truly a remarkable man. An All-American at Maryland in basketball and tennis, Lucas was the first pick in the 1976 NBA draft. But his crack cocaine problem later became so bad his wife had to lock him in the house — he once escaped out the window without shoes. After a successful — indeed, model — rehabilitation Lucas finished a strong pro career and coached in the league. Now he focuses on rehabbing others. Bryant seems to have had a good time with Lucas in rehab. “He’s a trip. He’s a great man,” Bryant said. “If anybody is seeking help I advise them to go to him.” Now Bryant just has to wait for another guy to get better — Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger.
