CLEVELAND — Josh Gordon’s troubles have deepened. He might be out of chances — and time.
The Browns wide receiver has failed yet another drug test, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Gordon, who twice has been suspended by the NFL for drug violations, could be banned for one year, said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the confidentiality of the testing.
ESPN, citing anonymous sources, first reported Gordon’s failed test.
The Browns’ patience with Gordon has been pushed to its limits.
“Clearly we are very disappointed to hear the latest report regarding Josh,” a Browns spokesman said Sunday in a team-issued release. “At this point, due to the confidential nature of the NFL’s substance-abuse policy, we have not been made aware by the league of a failed test. We are in the process of gathering more information and will provide further comment at the appropriate time.”
Agent Drew Rosenhaus said he could not comment on his client’s situation. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy declined comment.
Gordon’s latest misstep could lead to the Browns releasing the talented 23-year-old. A Pro Bowl selection in 2013, Gordon was suspended 10 games last season because he tested positive for marijuana. He returned for five games but failed to deliver the spark the Browns had hoped. He then was suspended by the Browns for violating team rules before the Dec. 28 season finale at Baltimore. Gordon had missed the team’s walk-through the previous day, and following the season, coach Mike Pettine revealed that Gordon had been guilty of multiple violations during the season.
Gordon missed the first two games in 2013 but still led the NFL with 1,646 receiving yards and emerged as the one of the league’s top playmakers.
Thumbnail image via NESN file
