Josh Gordon has had the kind of NFL career that makes you think, “What might’ve been.” Gordon spent eight seasons with the Cleveland Browns but after repeated violations on the NFL’s substance abuse policy for marijuana use, Gordon was released by the Browns in 2018 after they noted he was “not himself.”
Gordon signed with the Patriots and became an impactful receiver, catching 40 passes for 720 yards for the Pats on the season. But while everything seemed right on the surface, it apparently wasn’t as Gordon revealed he would be taking a leave of absence.
In a Twitter statement, Gordon thanked Bill Belichick, Robert Kraft, the Patriots and their fans for supporting him as he steps away from the field to focus on his mental health.
https://twitter.com/JOSH_GORDONXII/status/1075759466065338368
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Gordon reportedly violated the terms of his reinstatement for substance abuse and that could have been the catalyst for Gordon go to get help.
#Patriots WR Josh Gordon is facing another indefinite suspension for violating terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy, per source. He announced today he’s stepping away to address his mental health.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 20, 2018
Whatever Josh Gordon is facing, it seems like he’s got people around him who still want what’s best for him. Whether he actually plays again or not, that’s not that important right now. It’s about getting well as a person. After that, then worry about football.