Could New HGH Test Usher In NFL Player Testing?

In NFL news this week, commissioner Roger Goodell says he’s “still hopeful” that human growth hormone testing of players will occur this season.

Goodell, who spoke to reporters Monday, said: “I think the science has proven there’s a valid (HGH) test, and we’re hoping we’ll get the green light from the union.”

HGH testing of players was agreed upon by both the NFL and NFL player’s union and incorporated in the new labor contract in August. The player’s union, concerned about the safety and reliability of testing, stipulated they would consent to testing only after agreeing to the testing methods.

It is expected that later this month, Goodell and union head DeMaurice Smith will meet with members of Congress to talk about HGH testing.

On Monday, U.S. Anti-Doping Agency CEO Travis Tygart told The Associated Press that a new HGH test, that can detect the use of human growth hormone for up to 21 days, has been endorsed by international anti-doping officials, moving a step closer to a potential breakthrough against doping at next year’s London Olympics.

The new HGH test, which also uses blood samples, can go back “anywhere from 10 days to 21 days” and could be a significant deterrent against one of the most potent performance-enhancers in sports, Tygart said.

Tygart states the test would also be valid for the NFL, whose players’ union has yet to agree to introduction of any HGH testing.

The union has asked for more information about the process and questioned the safety and reliability of the test.

“There is complete consensus that it’s a good test, is scientifically reliable, has been well validated and should be used by any entity, professional or Olympic, that wants to protect clean athletes,” Tygart said.