Playing in the National Football League is a privilege. Commissioner Goodell has made that very clear since taking the reins. Professional football isn't a birthright or something you're entitled to just because you have talent — ask Pacman Jones how the game can be taken away at a moment's notice. Even when you haven't been convicted of anything.

So you can imagine how teams feel about illegal drug users. Anyone remember former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Quincy Carter? In 2003 he led the team to a 10-6 record and a playoff appearance. Failed a drug test in 2004 training camp. Released on the spot. Signed as a backup with the New York Jets for a season, then filed for retirement. Never competed for a League starting job again. The last team he played for was the Bossier-Shreveport Battle Wings in the Arena Football minor leagues. That was before he was arrested again on felony marijuana possession charges last October.

So don't think that your situation is so unique or that that couldn't happen to you. Everyone thinks it can't happen to them; the trick is having the tools to turn to in case something does happen. A list of reasons why you partake in drug use and a person you can trust is a good start.

At the end of the day it doesn't matter what I, or you, or anyone else thinks about drugs. In the eyes of the law, they're illegal, and in the eyes of the NFL, use is ab-use. I'm not saying it's fair and I'm not saying it's right - I'm saying that that's how it is. Getting branded as a drug abuser will cost you millions of dollars in the end. Field-tested.

Ask yourself which privilege you value most: getting high, or reaching the heights in pro ball.

Clayton Holmes was a three-time Super Bowl winner with the 1990s Dallas Cowboys. Today he is a personal trainer and lectures young athletes. Next week he will be writing about the fabled Rookie Wall, and pacing yourself for playing in the National Football League.