Packers and Za'Darius Smith Catch Lucky Break in Suspension Case Thanks to New CBA

The NFL's new collective bargaining agreement put in place a plethora of changes to league rules and regulations, including a new drug policy in which players will no longer be suspended for positive marijuana tests. That precedent also pertains to "possession, acquisition, sale, or distribution" of marijuana.

It goes without saying that this new adjustment will prove to benefit many teams and players, and star outside linebacker Za'Darius Smith of the Green Bay Packers is one of the first to live this new reality.

Back in September, Smith was cited for speeding and later admitted that a bag found in his car containing marijana was his. The 27-year-old admitted to law enforcement that he smoked cannabis earlier that day before leaving Chicago to return to Green Bay, but at the time of the citation, Smith did not smell of marijuana and had none on his immediate person. He was not arrested.

In 2018, running back Aaron Jones was suspended two games for a similar violation. The new CBA will surely see to it that Smith avoids any punishment from the NFL.

This is a lucky break for Smith and the Packers. The Pro Bowler might not be so fortunate during his next hypothetical run-in with the law. We all certainly hope it doesn't come to that, but this had better serve as a wake up call.