Health
Former NFL linebacker Thomas Davis reveals battle with opioid addiction
Multiple injuries during a 16-season career led to a prescription drug dependence that triggered a federal investigation into a self-styled pain-relief healer.
The short version
- Former Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis publicly disclosed an opioid addiction stemming from physical pain and comebacks from multiple career injuries, including three ACL tears.
- Prescriptions filled to supply Davis' addiction prompted a Drug Enforcement Administration investigation into Joan Rubinger, a self-styled healer who allegedly provided thousands of pain pills to high-profile athletes.
- Federal authorities alleged Davis obtained over 13,000 Oxycodone and Percocet pills between November 2019 and March 2024.
- Davis stated he has received treatment and accepts responsibility, while focusing on repairing relationships with his family.
Key facts
- Thomas Davis publicly revealed his opioid addiction for the first time during an appearance on The Pivot Podcast.[Associated Press]
- Prescriptions associated with Davis' addiction led the DEA to open an investigation in 2022 into self-styled healer Joan Rubinger.[Associated Press]
- Authorities alleged Davis received more than 13,000 Oxycodone and Percocet pills from November 2019 through March 2024.[Associated Press]
- Davis played 16 seasons in the NFL, spending 14 of those with the Carolina Panthers and earning the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 2014.[Associated Press]
What remains uncertain
- The full legal status and potential charges in the federal investigation involving Joan Rubinger remain unspecified.[Associated Press]