I Have A Request: The Day Mike James Made History

Recently, I interviewed Ruben Lindo. The Blak Mar founder and government strategist also had a brief professional football career. While Ruben no longer makes football his priority, he mentioned one player who did—until an injury changed everything. That injury would make him a pioneer in ways he could never have imagined.

We’re talking about former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Mike James. For James, football was life. A standout at the University of Miami, he was drafted by Tampa Bay in 2013.

The Injury That Changed Everything

During a Monday Night Football game against the Miami Dolphins, James suffered a devastating ankle injury after a tackle.

Following the injury, he was prescribed opioids to manage the pain. Like many athletes, he initially found relief—but soon, the side effects became unbearable.

“I became immune to painkillers, like I still had pain, and now I’m sedated with pain.” – Mike James

A Mother’s Plea

In a moment of vulnerability, James’ mother offered a heartfelt suggestion:

“Try pot instead of pills.”

Initially hesitant, James eventually gave cannabis a try. The results were transformative.

“My pain subsided. I never had something where I can be coherent and still have pain relief.” – Mike James

This experience marked the beginning of his journey into cannabis advocacy.

Challenging the NFL

Cannabis is banned by the NFL. Depending on the offense, players risk fines, suspensions, or even termination. Mike faced significant hurdles, but he didn’t blink.

In 2018, he became the first active NFL player to apply for a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) to use medical cannabis. Although the request was denied, the move sparked a national conversation about the role of cannabis in athlete health and recovery.

Building a Legacy

James’ advocacy didn’t stop with his TUE application. He partnered with medical professionals to create a health and wellness program centered on cannabis, offering significant relief without reliance on opioids.

Today, he serves as Vice President of Lion Order, a company dedicated to changing the conversation around cannabis and prioritizing health and wellness.

A Lasting Impact

Mike James’ story is more than personal transformation—it’s a testament to the power of challenging the status quo. His willingness to speak out has opened doors for other athletes to consider cannabis as a legitimate alternative to traditional pain management.

While the NFL has yet to fully embrace cannabis, James’ legacy continues to inspire change in sports and beyond.