What penalty does a player face for a second Failure to Cooperate violation in the substances of abuse program?

For a second Failure to Cooperate violation within the substances of abuse program, the penalty involves a fine that equates to 2/17ths of the player's Paragraph 5 salary. This measure serves to emphasize the importance of compliance with the program, ensuring that players understand the seriousness of their obligations to cooperate with testing protocols and other requirements.

The rationale behind imposing a fine rather than a more severe penalty, like suspension or contract termination, is to encourage adherence while still holding the player accountable for repeated noncompliance. The specific calculation of 2/17ths of the salary reflects a standard approach used in penalties related to violations within the league, designed to be proportionate to the player's earnings and the nature of the offense.

Understanding the gradual escalation in penalties for repeat offenses is crucial as it highlights the NFL's approach towards substance abuse violations, balancing enforcement with support for players’ rehabilitation.