The Browns will be without four players to starting 2016 Training Camp.
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Brown said Monday in a statement that the team would discuss with Gordon “the direction of our team, our expectations of our players and a plan to support him on and off the field”. Gordon missed the entirety of the 2015 season after being suspended for repeatedly violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
Gordon was originally able to apply for reinstatement on August 1; however, Goodell chose to expedite the process, showing a belief in Gordon’s ability to stay clean moving forward.
It was also reported in April that Gordon had a false-positive test for marijuana in March, which could account for the four-game suspension to start the 2016 season.
In his 35 career games, Gordon has 161 receptions, 2,754 yards, and 14 touchdowns.
Gordon met with Goodell in NY last week, clearing the way for his partial return.
“But, as you acknowledged, ultimately, your future is your responsibility”, continued Goodell. However, Monday’s plethora of good news was hindered a bit Tuesday, as the 25-year-old wideout has apparently been recovering from a quad injury that was previously unreported. During this suspension, Gordon may participate in team meetings and other activities but may not attend or participate in practices or games.
As long as he stays clean, Gordon, who met with Goodell in NY on Tuesday, is eligible to return to the team October 3. He was also suspended by the Browns for the season finale in 2014 after he was late for a pregame walk-through.
Gordon will be permitted to join the Browns right away and participate in meetings and conditioning work.
That means the Jets still must face Gordon, just as they also still must face Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (twice) and Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell.
Gordon hasn’t played since 2014.
A problem-free, dedicated Gordon would be a huge boost to the Browns’ young receiving corps.
As it is, Andrew Hawkins is the Browns’ most experienced wide receiver. He’s missed 27 of the team’s last 32 games.
Forgiving Gordon comes with risks.
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It will likely take a few games to be himself again but the rusty version is better than a lot of the receivers in the National Football League now. Gordon makes their team better.
