Tyrann Mathieu Reveals Desperate Measures to Pass College Drug Tests, Including Drinking Bleach
BATON ROUGE, La. — Before Tyrann Mathieu became an NFL All-Pro and a Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, the former LSU standout faced harrowing challenges off the field that nearly cost him his life. In a recent episode of his podcast, “In the Bayou with Tyrann Mathieu,” the retired defensive back recounted how he resorted to extreme and dangerous methods to pass drug tests during his college football career.
Mathieu, known as the “Honeybadger” for his tenacity on the field, played just two seasons at LSU before being dismissed from the team in 2012. His struggles with substance use led to his entry into a drug rehabilitation program, but it was the lengths he went to avoid failing drug tests that shocked many. He revealed that at one point, he consumed bleach mixed in Coca-Cola after reading online claims that bleach could manipulate drug test results.
“I’m just scrolling, scrolling, and I come across some s— that said put a little bleach in your Coca-Cola,” Mathieu said. “So I tried everything in the books.” The decision was perilous, nearly costing him his life as the toxic substance caused severe internal harm. This revelation underscores the intense pressure collegiate athletes face to maintain eligibility amid strict drug testing policies.
Drug testing in college sports is governed by regulations from organizations such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), which enforces drug policies to ensure fair competition and athlete safety. Despite these measures, Mathieu’s experience highlights the potential for dangerous behavior when athletes feel cornered by these requirements.
Following his dismissal from LSU, Mathieu entered the 2013 NFL Draft and went on to build a successful professional career, including winning Super Bowl LIV with the Chiefs. His candid reflections provide a rare glimpse into the personal battles athletes endure behind the scenes.
Experts in sports medicine and athlete welfare emphasize the importance of support systems and education to prevent such risky actions. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration advocates for comprehensive programs that address substance use and mental health challenges among athletes.
Mathieu’s story also resonates with ongoing discussions about the pressures student-athletes face balancing performance, health, and compliance with regulations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) promotes initiatives to foster healthy environments for young athletes, aiming to reduce the stigma around seeking help.
As Mathieu shares his journey, he hopes to raise awareness and encourage others struggling with similar issues to seek support rather than resort to dangerous measures. His transformation from a troubled college athlete to a celebrated NFL figure serves as a powerful testament to resilience and the importance of addressing the root causes of substance use in sports.
For more information on athlete health and substance use prevention, resources are available through the NFL Player Health & Safety program and related organizations dedicated to supporting athletes at all levels.
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