Former NFL Lineman Kyle Turley Advocates Cannabis as a Tool During COVID‑19 Pandemic
In March 2020, as scientists worldwide raced to develop a vaccine for the novel coronavirus, former NFL offensive lineman Kyle Turley spoke with USA TODAY Sports about a remedy he believes already exists: cannabis. Turley, who has used marijuana for two decades, said the plant “has a way to address” the pandemic and claimed that, at certain levels, it could help resolve viral infections.
Personal Journey and Health Claims
Turley, now 44, described a long history of health struggles that he attributes to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and the opioid medications prescribed during his nine‑season NFL career with the Saints, Rams, and Chiefs. He said he once contemplated jumping from the third story of his home before deciding to abandon pharmaceuticals, including psychiatric drugs, in favor of cannabis.
According to Turley, cannabis has alleviated vertigo, seizures, light sensitivity, foot pain, numbness, and uncontrollable rage. He also said his wife, Stacey, experienced relief from skin cancer after using cannabis, and that daily CBD—an extract of cannabis without the psychoactive THC—has strengthened the immune systems of his two children, ages 9 and 11. Turley added that the children’s doctors have noted they are among the healthiest patients they have seen and have refused flu shots because the kids’ immune systems appear exceptionally strong.
Scientific Context and Expert Opinions
While Turley’s anecdotes are compelling, the scientific community urges caution. A Reuters report referenced in the original USA TODAY article examined social‑media claims that cannabis can kill the coronavirus and found no evidence to support those assertions. The American Lung Association warns that smoking marijuana can damage lung tissue and potentially impair the immune system’s ability to fight infections.
Nonetheless, research has shown cannabinoids to be beneficial in specific medical contexts, such as reducing seizures in rare forms of epilepsy, easing chemotherapy‑induced nausea, and managing symptoms associated with HIV/AIDS. Johns Hopkins University reported that, as of the Sunday morning referenced in the article, more than 13,400 people had died worldwide from COVID‑19, underscoring the urgency of finding effective interventions.
Turley’s own CBD product line, Neuro XPF, is sold at Shango, a dispensary he co‑owns in Moreno Valley, California. The store opened on March 13, 2020, and drew roughly 200 customers on its grand‑opening day. Cannabis retailers were deemed essential under California’s stay‑at‑home order, allowing Shango to remain open while the restriction was scheduled to end April 19, 2020.
Community Impact and Business Venture
Turley’s deep roots in Moreno Valley—where he played high school football—have helped him gain credibility with local officials and residents. Brandon Rexroad, Turley’s business partner and a multi‑state cannabis operator, noted that the former athlete’s reputation lends legitimacy to their venture and facilitates community acceptance.
Beyond the storefront, Turley has expressed a desire to share his experience with fellow NFL veterans, hoping that cannabis might offer an alternative to the opioid reliance that has plagued many players. He reflected on the late Hall of Fame linebacker Junior Seau, suggesting that greater access to cannabis could have changed outcomes for athletes struggling with mental health and pain.
While Turley remains convinced that cannabis has saved his life and strengthened his family’s well‑being, he acknowledges the need for continued research and responsible use. His story highlights the intersection of personal testimony, emerging science, and public‑policy debates surrounding cannabis during a global health crisis.
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