NFL Re-Instates Thurman

Linebacker Odell Thurman was reinstated from an NFL suspension after sitting out the last two seasons. The Cincinnati Bengals said Monday they were informed by commissioner Roger Goodell that Thurman is eligible to play. He was suspended the last two seasons because of violations of the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He had been cleared in January by the NFL to resume working out with the Bengals pending word on his status. A second-round draft pick from Georgia in 2005, Thurman started 15 games at middle linebacker, led the team in tackles and tied the team rookie record with five interceptions. He was suspended for the first four games of the 2006 season after missing a drug test, and the suspension was extended to the full season after he was arrested for drunken driving. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to six days in a treatment center.