What is the NFL alcohol policy?

The NFL forbids alcohol on team planes or buses.

This week, however, two alcohol-related high-profile incidents took place, and the league is looking into how to handle the consequences.

On Monday, following the Washington Commanders’ upset victory against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Commanders had beer on the team plane, and their quarterback Taylor Heinicke was taped with beer in his hand and cans beside him.

According to sources, the Commanders reached out to the league and said they would take care of the athletes’ discipline internally, including serving monetary fines to at least one player.

While Washington’s action satisfied the NFL, it wasn’t enough to stop other teams from breaking the alcohol policy.

Titans Todd Downing arrested

On Friday, following Tennessee’s win over the Green Bay Packers, Titans offensive coordinator Todd Downing was arrested on suspicion of DUI and speeding.

Downing was pulled over shortly after arriving in Tennessee, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, which only indicates alcohol was also served on the team plane.

NFL renew focus on alcohol policy

Titans head coach Mike Vrabel declined to give any comment on the matter.

On Friday, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell sent a memo to teams reminding them of the league’s alcohol policy:

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

“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.

“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 the Management Council or Football Operations.”