Use of Steroids in NFL Is Cited by Ex-Steeler

Many NFL players oppose steroids but use the drugs anyway to remain competitive, according to a former offensive lineman who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“The game is violent, the players are in heavy combat and they need chemicals to survive,” said Steve Courson, who is writing a book about the use of steroids in the National Football League. “Those chemicals could be pain killers, cortisone shots or steroids.”

A fifth-round pick out of South Carolina in 1977, Courson said professional football has changed a lot in the last decade because of steroids.

“Taking chemicals also gives you an advantage, and players are forced to use them in order to keep on a par with everyone else. And it’s difficult emotionally because it’s against the morals of a lot of players,” Courson said.