Josh Gordon is taking a hiatus from his professional football career and entering an in-patient rehabilitation facility, the Cleveland Browns announced today. Gordon, the ultra-talented 25-year-old wild receiver, has struggled with repeatedly failing NFL-administered drug tests throughout his career.
See ya soon.. 👍🏾
The Browns, who said they “support Josh” in focusing on his health, released statements from Gordon and the organization.
WR Josh Gordon is entering an in-patient rehabilitation facility. pic.twitter.com/pv7ZD5KZuB
Gordon would have been eligible to play next Sunday, Oct. 9, after serving a suspension for the first four games of this year. He has been suspended twice by the NFL and once by the Browns.
Gordon played college football at Baylor, but was suspended indefinitely for multiple marijuana incidents. The Browns selected him in the 2012 supplemental draft, and in 2013 he led the NFL with 1,646 receiving yards.
He has played in just five games since that season due to the multiple suspensions. He did participate in training camp this year, and he looked good in two games of preseason action. He even hauled in a touchdown pass from the now-injured Robert Griffin III, who was also his quarterback at Baylor.
Though there are certainly some disappointed Browns fans, there seems to be a consensus in the football world that this was the right decision for Gordon. We hope to see him healthy and back on the field soon.