Dallas Cowboys: Randy Gregory appears before Roger Goodell

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Randy Gregory’s appeal was heard before Roger Goodell. Could his return to the field be imminent?

The Dallas Cowboys chose Randy Gregory in the NFL Draft knowing he was a risk. Gregory had failed a drug test at the combine, which is more of an intelligence test than a drug test. He failed a drug test knowing exactly what day he was going to be tested. So, the Cowboys knew what they were getting in Gregory.

But they took the chance because they see Gregory has having the potential to be an outstanding pass rusher in the NFL. Although he has yet to show it on the field, mainly due to drug-related suspensions, the Cowboys believe it is only a matter of time once he gets back into the game.

Gregory is hoping to get back into the game sooner than later. Gregory officially filed his reinstatement papers on May 17, 2018. From the time of his filing, the NFL has 60 days to rule on the petition.

It is reported, per 247 Sports, that Gregory’s camp submitted 2,000 page report and “five or six boxes” of evidence in support of his case. It has been about a month since the filing, for Goodell to hear his case personally is a good sign. Goodell has roughly one month in which to make a ruling. It is hoped Gregory will be reinstated.

The real challenge for Gregory is not getting into shape or back to form — it’s to get his life together. He will need to show that he is able to pass drug tests. But he must also show that he has turned the corner in his choice of friends. He will also need to state the case that football will provide a support system to make sure he succeeds.

The Dallas Cowboys are also in the equation. The league office will want to know what their plan is to help Gregory to move forward with this life. His reinstatement is not simply about how he is taking ownership of his life and situation. That is only half the issue. The other part is the plan to keep him successful off the field moving forward.

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If Gregory is reinstated, the goal for this season should be to keep him reinstated. The on the field concerns should ultimately take a back seat. If he gives anything on the field, great! If not, keeping him in the right place as a person is most important. The on the field issues can wait until the 2019 season.