Georgia Bulldogs LB Justin Houston and Iowa Hawkeyes DT Christian Ballard each failed a drug test at the NFL Combine, according to Fox Sports' Jay Glazer. Both players reportedly tested positive for marijuana at the February event in Indianapolis.
Houston has been projected as a first-rounder by most outlets, with the Atlanta Falcons a popular landing spot. Given the team's preference for avoiding players with trouble in their pasts, that could now be out the window. Still, it's just a report at this point, and Houston hasn't been in any serious trouble before this.
Whether true or not, it's a shame Houston's draft stock and amazing Combine performance are both now tainted by what every NFL team is going to perceive as a significant character flaw. With the 2011 NFL Draft only two days away, it's hard to think Houston won't tumble into the second round now.
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