Ricky Williams was heavily associated with marijuana use, and according to Calvin Johnson, the former Lions legend, Williams might have easily secured a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame if the NFL had been more lenient about its marijuana policies during Williams’ prime.
Johnson expressed to TMZ Sports that he believes Williams possessed exceptional talent, and the potential benefits of marijuana could have contributed to extending his career. According to Johnson, “Ricky would probably be a first-ballot Hall of Famer if he didn’t have the issues with that.”
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In a surprising revelation, Johnson suggested that his own football career might have had a longer duration if the NFL had adopted more relaxed regulations on cannabis during his playing days.
Recently, the NFL has eased its strict marijuana policies, a change that Johnson hopes will pave the way for athletes, both in the NFL and college, to explore the benefits of CBD products. In retirement, Johnson, alongside his former Detroit teammate Rob Sims, founded a cannabis company named Primitiv. They have introduced a line of products called Primitiv Performance aimed at aiding sports competitors in their recovery.
While awaiting NSF certification for sport, Johnson is enthusiastic about athletes embracing their new products once approved. He emphasized his belief in the efficacy of these products, stating, “We truly believe in it. I use it!”
In a lighter moment, Johnson even humorously suggested that Primitiv Performance could potentially assist injured quarterback Aaron Rodgers in returning to the field more quickly this season.
Aside from discussing cannabis-related matters, Johnson also shared his excitement for the success of his former team, the Detroit Lions, and praised head coach Dan Campbell for his authenticity. Ricky Williams’ connection to marijuana has undeniably set him apart from the typical former NFL running back.
