NFL official: Alcohol education a 'hot spot'

• Brent could face discipline under league's substance abuse policy

Josh Brent, like all NFL players, has been warned about the dangers and consequences of drinking and driving.

Alcohol education is a cornerstone of the league's rookie education program, said Troy Vincent, the NFL's vice president of player engagement.

"That particular subject matter is one that is a constant. There is constant education," Vincent told USA TODAY Sports this week.

But Vincent said it isn't just rookies who receive that education. Prior to the season, each team holds a meeting for all coaches and players in which league officials as well as law enforcement officials discuss alcohol, banned substances, prescription drugs and guns.

"That's built into our DNA in terms of educating and identifying," Vincent said. "That's one of our hot spots. It's a hot spot nationally. It seems like we become the center of issues that plague our country."

Brent was also required to attend a victim's impact panel as part of his sentence pleading guilty to a DUI charge in 2009 while he was at the University of Illinois.

With this arrest, Brent could be subject to discipline under the league's substance abuse policy, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said.

"Players are reminded of that every year and responsible drinking is covered in the life skills sessions that every club is required to hold annually for the players," Aiello said.

Said Vincent: "In addition to holding players accountable through our long-standing league discipline for substance abuse and alcohol-related violations of the law, we emphasize personal responsibility and decision-making."