As the Dallas Cowboys gear up to kick off their training camp in California next week, defensive end Randy Gregory will be in attendance, although he will not be participating in full practices. The NFL granted Gregory conditional reinstatement on Thursday, allowing him to be present at the camp, attend meetings, and engage in similar activities, but he is not yet cleared to play in games or join practices.
Gregory is expected to be cleared for full participation once arrangements are finalized regarding his clinical resources in Dallas and as long as he continues to comply with the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
In response to the news, Gregory expressed his feelings to ESPN, stating, “I wasn’t surprised because I think we all felt pretty confident that I’d get back in. We were assuming it would be around Friday, so when I got the news I was shocked and happy. Not surprised. It’s a good moment.” He went on to say, “I can’t say it’s the same feeling as draft night or even getting my first sack, but a big accomplishment for me. I think a lot of people thought I wouldn’t be able to do this.”
“I’ve come back from all of that, and on the right track mentally and physically, it’s a blessing,” he added.
It’s worth noting that Gregory has missed thirty out of the past 32 regular season games due to violations of the league’s substance abuse policy.
During his time away from the Cowboys, Gregory underwent a rehab program, maintained a job, and made positive changes in his life. As part of the reinstatement process, Gregory met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in New York last month, and his legal team provided the league with his test results, personal letters, and endorsements from his teammates Tyrone Crawford, Jeff Heath, and Sean Lee.
