Former LSU defensive back Tyrann Mathieu disputed a USA Today report that contains a quote attributed to him by an unnamed NFL assistant coach.

The assistant told USA Today that Mathieu admitted to failing more than 10 drug tests in his time at LSU before being dismissed.

“It is irresponsible and shows a lack of integrity for anyone to disclose medical information regardless of how it was gathered,” Mathieu said in a news release. “I would expect that conversations regarding my drug testing history during the course of my medical treatment would be private.  LSU has a strong drug testing program and LSU went to great lengths to help me in my treatment and recovery.  I understand that many people enjoy reading about the negative side of sports, but to publish those second-hand comments without being given a chance to address that comment prior to the publication of the article is irresponsible.”

LSU Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Joe Alleva responded by defending Mathieu’s statement and  LSU’s substance abuse program.

“LSU has a strong substance abuse program that tries to identify and assist in the treatment and long term recovery process of drug use and abuse, and it is a program we would put up against any in the country,” Alleva said. “Once a substance abuse problem is identified, LSU is diligent in tracking those individuals over extended periods of time with frequent testing and engages them in meaningful opportunities for support through counseling and substance abuse treatment.”