It appears that the NFL and NFLPA aren't exactly on the same page when it comes to whether or not a player is allowed to film a drug test.
Although the NFL says that players are not allowed, the NFLPA says otherwise.
In a letter to players that was sent on Friday, NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said that in most cases, players are allowed to film the process.
"Despite what [Steelers linebacker James Harrison] was told, and what has been reported, our drug policy regarding specimen collection rules does not specifically prohibit the video taping of a drug test," Smith wrote in the letter.
However, Smith did point out that "there are rules in place that prohibit a player from carrying any item other than his collection cup into his restroom when providing a sample."
Although Harrison might not be able to "carry" a camera into the bathroom when he's asked to give his next urine sample, it does sound like the NFLPA is saying that he's allowed to film the process if a camera is already in place. For instance, he could be wearing a GoPro or have a home security system.
If a player does want to film the drug-testing process, Smith pointed out that the player should be familiar with local laws.
"Some states may have rules limiting a person's ability to videotape another person without their consent," Smith wrote.
The entire subject of whether or not you can film a drug test came up this week after Harrison was warned about filming the drug testing process during a heated meeting with an NFL-sanctioned drug tester on Tuesday.
Harrison tried to film the ordeal, but was told to put his camera away.
The drug tester warned Harrison that he would receive an automatic "fail" if he continued to film the testing process. A failed test generally leads to a suspension, so Harrison agreed to put his camera away.
According to Smith, the drug tester had no right to tell Harrison to stop filming.
"If drug collectors desire to change the collection rules, they may not do so on their own, as happened in this case," Smith wrote. "They need to obtain [NFL and NFLPA] approval. They do not get to make up the rules on their own."
Smith's advice to players directly contrasts with what an NFL spokesman said on Thursday. In a statement about the Harrison matter, the spokesman said that "a player may not film a drug test."
The drug testing policy doesn't seem to specifically mention whether or not a player can film the process, which means the NFL and NFLPA are going to have to figure out how to come to an agreement on this the next time they're at the bargaining table together.
