Former LSU Star Tyrann Mathieu Recalls Risky Attempts to Pass Drug Tests

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Tyrann Mathieu, the former LSU football star who went on to have a successful NFL career, revealed on his podcast that he took drastic measures like consuming bleach in an attempt to pass drug tests and preserve his college eligibility. Mathieu said he "tried everything in the books" to avoid failing tests, including using fake devices and other individuals' samples, before the bleach incident that nearly cost him his life.

Why it matters

Mathieu's story highlights the intense pressure and risky decisions some college athletes may face in order to continue playing, even when it comes to their own health and safety. His experience raises broader questions about the effectiveness and fairness of NCAA drug testing policies.

The details

Mathieu played just two seasons at LSU before being dismissed from the team in 2012 and entering a drug rehabilitation program. On his podcast, he reflected on the extreme lengths he went to in order to pass drug tests and maintain his college eligibility, including consuming bleach which caused him to vomit and nearly killed him. Mathieu also tried using fake devices and other people's samples during testing.

• Mathieu played at LSU in 2011 and 2012 before being dismissed from the team.
• Mathieu was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the 3rd round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
• Mathieu went on to have a 12-year NFL career, making 3 Pro Bowls and 4 All-Pro teams.

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