One of the brightest storylines of the 2014 NFL season was the play of formerly-retired linebacker Rolando McClain. The former Alabama star and eighth pick in the 2010 NFL draft started for the Dallas Cowboys and delivered a strong season after retiring from football. However, he has run into some more trouble that could severely hamper his ability to 
continue playing professional football.

After being a unanimous All-American linebacker and a key part of the 2010 National Championship for the Crimson Tide, McClain was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the 2010 draft. He showed flashes of the talent and play that made him a college star but ultimately struggled to justify his lofty draft status. McClain also struggled with off-the-field issues, including multiple run-ins with law enforcement ranging from a window tint violation to assault and resisting arrest. The troubled linebacker sent out messages on social media indicating that he was fed up with Oakland and he was released in April 2013.

McClain signed with the Baltimore Ravens after his release but retired before suiting up for a game. A year later, the Dallas Cowboys acquired the rights to him for a sixth-round pick and were able to coax him into playing football once again. He rose to the occasion, delivering strong leadership and ending up as a Pro Bowl alternate.

McClain had some concussion problems at the end of the season, but looked to cash in this offseason as a free agent. However, he currently faces a potential four-game suspension after a failed substance abuse test. This is especially disheartening since he fought through adversity to get back to the NFL. McClain had a real chance to continue his resurgence and set a great example for people who face adversity.

Now not only is McClain’s potential suspension likely to cost him free agent money, but he is another suspension away from facing a yearlong ban similar to what Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon faces. Gordon’s NFL future is incredibly murky, and McClain could potentially be heading for the 
same problem.

Hopefully McClain is able to use this situation to finally turn the corner and put all of his off-field problems behind him once and for all. Otherwise, he could end up being just another NFL player who fell victim to drugs and legal problems.