Former
LSU cornerback
Tyrann Mathieu is disputing a story by USA Today Sports regarding a quote attributed to him that came from an unnamed NFL assistant coach about failed drug tests.
The newspaper reported that Mathieu told at least one NFL team he failed so many drug tests in college that he couldn't even remember them all.
An assistant coach for one team told the newspaper that when that team interviewed Mathieu, he was asked how many drug tests he failed in college.
"I quit counting at 10," Mathieu answered. "I really don't know."
Mathieu contacted LSU on Friday, saying the story does not accurately reflect the discussions that he has had while on visits to various NFL teams.
"It is irresponsible and shows a lack of integrity for anyone to disclose medical information regardless of how it was gathered," Mathieu said. "I would expect that conversations regarding my drug testing history during the course of my medical treatment would be private. LSU has a strong drug testing program and LSU went to great lengths to help me in my treatment and recovery. I understand that many people enjoy reading about the negative side of sports, but to publish those second-hand comments without being given a chance to address that comment prior to the publication of the article is irresponsible."
The assistant told the newspaper that Mathieu's statement had him pointing his finger at LSU as much as the player.
"If he flunked 10 tests before they suspended him, it shows that he got no kind of help," the coach said.
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