Josh Gordon’s return to the NFL is in question after entering into an in-patient rehab center on Thursday.
In a statement addressing his choice, Gordon said, “This is the right decision for me and one that I hope will enable me to gain full control of my life and continue on a path to reach my full potential as a person.”
Under some pressure & stress recently, had to take a time out for myself.Sometimes you have to do what’s best for you. Thank u @nfl @Browns
— Flash Gordon (@JOSH_GORDONXII) September 29, 2016
The Cleveland Browns organization offered support for Gordon after releasing a statement of their own applauding his decision. However, they refused to comment on his future status with the team.
The former All-Pro wide receiver has been battling substance abuse his entire career. He failed drug tests four different times in his career. The NFL suspended him for all four incidents.
In 2013 he was banned for two games, in 2014 missed 10 games, was suspended for all of 2015, and he was out the first four games of this season.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell reinstated Gordon on July 25.
The 25-year-old was slated to rejoin the Browns in Week Five. After starting the season 0-3, the Browns depended on the return of their former playmaker.
Gordon showed he was still able to produce when he saw action in his first preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He hauled in a 44-yard grab and added a 43-yard touchdown.
The Browns Are Decimated By Injuries
The return of Gordon was necessary because the Browns endured many blows to their starting lineup.
They lost their starting quarterback Robert Griffin III and back up Josh McCown to lengthy ailments. Also, they are without first-round wide receiver Corey Coleman who suffered a broken hand.
The lone shining lights for the Browns offense has been the success of their running game behind Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson. They’ve combined for 377 yards with two scores through the first three weeks.
Terrelle Pryor, their quarterback-turned-wideout has been a nice surprise for the team. Pryor had a historic performance against the Miami Dolphins. He is the first player to have 120 receiving yards, 30 passing yards, and 20 rushing yards since former-great Frank Gifford in 1959.
Not only could Gordon have helped his team this year, but his off-the-field issues have derailed what could’ve been a decorated career. In 35 career games he tallied 161 receptions for 2,754 yards and 15 touchdowns.
