Nov 25, 2018; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon (10) runs with the ball against the New York Jets during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

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.

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.

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.

About Phillip Bupp

Producer/editor of the Awful Announcing Podcast and Short and to the Point. News editor for The Comeback and Awful Announcing. Highlight consultant for Major League Soccer as well as a freelance writer for hire. Opinions are my own but feel free to agree with them.

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