If people need a reminder that the NFL isn't the well-oiled machine those running it want you to believe, then this story should clarify matters. Charles Tillman is one of the great Chicago Bears players in history. He played 13 seasons, reached two Pro Bowls, and holds the team record for forced fumbles and ranks near the top in interceptions. Many believe he is worthy of making it into the Hall of Fame.
One other thing to remember?
He's been retired for four years. The star cornerback hung up the cleats by in July of 2016. He did a three-minute YouTube video about it and signed a one-day contract with the Bears so he could do it in Chicago. There was never any doubt he was done. Apparently the league didn't get the memo though.
Tillman received an email from them demanding he participate in their annual drug test for Performance-Enhancing Substances. Unless they were tipped off that he might be attempting a comeback, this came as a total surprise. The 39-year old, for his part, was willing to take the test provided they gave him something in return.
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