The reinstatement means that Gordon will be able to report for training camp with the Browns.
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Gordon was added to the 90-man roster and undrafted rookie defensive back A.J. Stamps was waived to make room. Unlike Gordon, Brady can have no contact with the team or coaching staff for the duration of the suspension until after the 4 week of the season.
It’s a new setback for Gordon, who hasn’t played since 2014 and was suspended all of last season for multiple drug violations.
So by the time Gordon completes his four-game suspension to begin this season, he will have played in 35 games during his National Football League career – and will have been suspended for 33 other games.
On August 27, 2014, Gordon announced he accepted the NFL’s one-year suspension for violating the league’s substance-abuse policy once again. He is eligible to return to action on October 3rd, which is the same week that a certain four-time Super Bowl champion and a very motivated Tom Brady returns from his Deflategate suspension.
All four players can participate in strength and conditioning, rehab and team meetings. He was named to his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams in 2013, leading the National Football League with 1,646 receiving yards.
Gordon was suspended 10 games in 2014 and the entire 2015 season for substance violations, a pattern that began during his college career at Baylor and Utah.
As we discussed at our [July 19] meeting, as Commissioner, I want nothing more than to see you turn your circumstances around and succeed.
“But, as you acknowledged, ultimately, your future is your responsibility”, continued Goodell. The team invested in the receiver position through the draft, so if Gordon lets the team down and gets suspended there are plenty of players ready to step up and take his place.
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Gordon would go on to be voted a Pro Bowler after his return.
