NFL against alcohol: hard sanctions will be imposed on those who drink in team facilities or airplanes

As part of its policies to make the game a healthier environment among players on all 32 teams, the NFL on Friday afternoon sent a memo to all squads about its policy prohibiting alcohol on team facilities and during travel.

Through the document, commissioner Roger Goodell threatened that there will be "significant discipline" for teams that violate this policy starting today.

"In light of recent events, clubs are reminded that League policy prohibits alcoholic beverages, including beer, in locker rooms, practice or office facilities, or while traveling on team buses or aircraft at any time during the preseason," the memo said. "This applies to all players, coaches, club personnel and guests traveling with your team."

Commanders QB Taylor Heinicke spotted with beer on team's plane

One image that got people talking the past few days was that of Washington Commanders QB Taylor Heinicke, who was spotted drinking a beer on the team's plane. Commanders fans didn't think much of it because their team had just beaten Philadelphia, taking away their undefeated record.

Another alcohol-related incident involved Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Todd Downing, who on Friday the 18th was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving. This happened one day after the Titans beat Green Bay at Lambeau Field on Thursday Night Football.

The policy has been in place for years

"This policy has been in place for many years. Making alcohol available at club facilities or while traveling creates significant and unnecessary risks to the League, its players, coaches and others. Violations of this important policy will be taken seriously and will result in significant discipline," says the memo.

"Each club should ensure that its travel arrangements do not include providing alcohol service at any time and should also take appropriate steps to confirm that alcohol (whether beer or any other alcoholic beverage) is not available at its facility. Please direct all further questions on this subject to Management Council or Football Operations."

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