On Thursday (July 26), the Cleveland Browns will open training camp. Josh Gordon, their oft-suspended but still good as hell receiver, won't be there. He said as much on Monday, and also cited his "health and treatment plan" (which came about after he returned from multiple substance-related suspensions) as being behind the decision.
According to league sources who spoke to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Gordon is seeking further counseling to deal with his mental health and anxiety issues. Gordon has previously stated he dealt with those issues by using drugs or alcohol, which is obviously something he can't do without violating the league's substance abuse policy once again. In fact, last year Gordon told GQ that he took either drugs or alcohol before every NFL game he had played in.
Gordon, who's appeared in just 10 games since leading the NFL in receiving yards in 2013, said that he's "doing great" both mentally and physically, but that the current plan will "help me maintain the progress I've made for not only today but for many years to come." He also tweeted out his entire statement on the matter:
The team also released a statement, wherein they said "We will continue to support Josh as he receives the care needed to maintain his progress. We are going to respect his privacy while he is away from the team." They further stated they expect him to return, but given the nature of this type of thing they're not sure when that will be.
Also, in case you're wondering, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said Gordon has not been suspended.
