Josh Gordon’s next NFL reception — if there is one — probably won’t come with the Cleveland Browns.
The Browns intend to part ways with Gordon at some point following Thursday’s news that the suspended wide receiver is entering a rehab facility, a source told ESPN’s Dan Graziano.
The organization hasn’t confirmed whether or not it will release Gordon, but Browns coach Hue Jackson made it clear Friday the team is turning the page on the beleaguered 25-year-old’s situation.
“We wish him well,” Jackson told reporters. “We need to close that chapter right now. We’re moving on.”
Gordon hasn’t played in a game since December 2014. He was suspended for the entire 2015 season for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, and his request for reinstatement initially was denied in January because he reportedly failed another drug test. The NFL ultimately reinstated Gordon in July but suspended him for the first four games of the 2016 season.
There’s no denying Gordon’s talent when he’s on the field, though. So even though the Browns are entering their Week 4 game against the Washington Redskins with an 0-3 record, his impending return in Week 5 against the New England Patriots gave some reason for optimism. Now it appears that return will be put on hold indefinitely while Gordon deals with more important issues.
Gordon earned a Pro Bowl selection after the 2013 season in which he racked up an NFL-best 1,646 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 87 catches in 14 games.
Thumbnail photo via Scott Galvin/USA TODAY Sports Images
