It would be interesting to comprise a list of notable players who posters think get more of a free pass, and a list of those who don't. And then speculate as to why.
Abe Lucas gets a pass from me because...
1) He had legit NFL talent, as a tackle even, and good tackles don't grow on trees
2) He had at least one good season, where he exceeded draft slot expectations (IIRC)
3) There's hope for him to come back, possibly at the same level of impact
4) He's on a rookie contract, not eating massive salary cap
5) As far as I know, he's doing everything he can to come back, without knowing any details
6) The team seems to have a plan for his recovery and return
7) The issue seems to be no fault of his own, e.g., not a Malik McDowell thing
8) As far as I know, he's a good citizen, solid dude, nothing here involves character issues (e.g. Albert Haynesworth)
OK, that about covers it!
Now CJ Prosise, Dee Eskridge, the list might be a little different, but Abe Lucas has a pass from me for now. Even if/when that pass is revoked, it will probably be because the team writes off the possibility for return, and he'll get a "medical retirement free pass" from me.