Former NFL Player Embraces Cannabis on the League’s Biggest Stage
Once regarded as a troubled athlete, Ricky Williams, who retired from the 2004 NFL season and was suspended for the entire 2006 season due to marijuana-related issues, has since become a vocal advocate for both medical and recreational cannabis. Williams, who rushed for over 10,000 yards in his 11 NFL seasons and won the Heisman Trophy in 1998, has even founded his own marijuana brand, Highsman, named after his prestigious college football accolade.
A Cannabis Promotion at the Super Bowl
This weekend, Williams will be in Las Vegas, hosting two meet and greets with fans before the Super Bowl. The event, which brings together cannabis and the NFL world, would have been unimaginable a decade ago. However, times have changed, and marijuana has become legalized to some extent in all but four states, with half the country fully embracing its legalization.
Grateful for the Changing Tides
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Williams expressed his gratitude for the progress that has been made. He acknowledges that if the country had not adapted, his life could have turned out very differently. “I’d be in trouble. Probably be hiding my cannabis use. But thank God that as time moves, people figure things out and keep growing,” he says.
A Personal Journey
Reflecting on his own journey, Williams acknowledges that his previous struggles with marijuana were due to a lack of understanding about its benefits. “Back in 2004, when I ran into all my issues with cannabis, it wasn’t common knowledge that it’s good for you,” he says. Williams believes that it took a collective effort from advocates and individuals sharing their stories to change public perception.
Proud of the Progress
Despite facing criticism for breaking the rules during his playing days, Williams has no regrets. He is proud of the progress that has been made and the positive impact it has had on current athletes. “I have a deep appreciation for how difficult being a professional football player is. I feel proud that I was able to do something to make their lives a little bit easier,” Williams states.
A Path to Self-Discovery
Williams acknowledges that his past experiences with marijuana were essential in shaping the person he is today. He believes that those experiences were necessary for him to find his true path. “It was kind of like my own conscious sabotaging the experience for me to wake up and find my own path. You know how I know that’s true? Because that’s exactly what happened,” he explains.
In conclusion, Ricky Williams has gone from being a troubled athlete to a prominent advocate for cannabis. As the country continues to embrace the benefits of marijuana, Williams stands proud, grateful, and unapologetic for his journey and the positive impact he is making.