Former University of Alabama and University of Georgia strength and conditioning coach Scott Cochran spoke Monday about his struggle with drug addiction during his time working under coach Nick Saban.
Cochran addressed the Drug Education Council of Mobile at the Renaissance Riverview Hotel.
He was known for his strong voice and was successful in helping UA, UGA and LSU get to eight national championships. He also worked in the NBA as an assistant strength coach for the New Orleans Hornets. But his own personal weakness was not addressed. After being prescribed OxyContin for migraines, he became addicted.
By 2015, he said he was taking 10 pills per day, sometimes crushing them up and snorting them to get rid of his migraines faster. He was using one doctor in Alabama and another in Mississippi. When in need of even more, he took to the streets to buy pills from a dealer. The entire time, his wife and kids never knew he was a drug addict.
Now in recovery, he has turned his life around and is using his struggle to help others.
Cochran launched the American Addiction Recovery Association in 2024 to restore families and strengthen communities.
The University of West Alabama announced Cochran as the new UWA Tigers football team head coach earlier this year. He has hired former UA quarterback Blake Sims and running back Ronnie Clark as assistants.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
