Cox files federal complaint over ban

The suspended Buc argues alcoholism is a disability.

By STEPHEN F. HOLDER
Published August 17, 2007

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Bucs cornerback Torrie Cox made a last-ditch effort to overturn his four-game suspension for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.

Cox, whose violation stemmed from drinking alcohol after being placed in a program that prohibited it, filed a discrimination claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under the Americans with Disabilities Act, his agent said Thursday.

Peter Schaffer believes alcoholism is a disability. The suit does not say Cox is an alcoholic but he is perceived to be one, which was the league's basis for the suspension.

The EEOC is a federal agency that enforces job discrimination laws. The ADA prohibits employer discrimination based on disabilities. It defines a disability as "a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities."

Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman, also suspended because of alcohol violations, has filed a similar suit, according to the team's Web site.

Schaffer said Cox's only violation came when he drank champagne at his wedding this year. Cox's appeal to the league, filed last month, is still pending, Schaffer said.

Though he believes the suit has a chance of success, it's possible it won't be dealt with before the start of Cox's suspension in Week 1.