NFL suspends Browns WR Josh Gordon for at least a year
The NFL confirmed on Tuesday a minimum one-year suspension of Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon for violating the league's substance abuse policy.
Last month, reports indicated that Gordon was facing a year-long ban after testing positive for alcohol. Gordon was being tested as a result of being arrested for DWI last July. He also tested positive for marijuana last May and was forced to sit out the first 10 games of the season.
"As we have conveyed, we are disappointed to once again be at this point with Josh. Throughout his career we have tried to assist him in getting support like we would with any member of our organization," Browns general manager Ray Farmer said. "Unfortunately our efforts have not resonated with him. It is evident that Josh needs to make some substantial strides to live up to the positive culture we are trying to build this football team upon. Our hope is that this suspension affords Josh the opportunity to gain some clarity in determining what he wants to accomplish moving forward and if he wants a career in the National Football League. We will have no further comment on Josh as he will not be permitted in our facility for the duration of his suspension."
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Gordon will be suspended without pay for at least one year. The NFL will have to reinstate Gordon before he is allowed to return.
Gordon's contract currently runs through 2016, Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reported last month.
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His failed test for alcohol did not come during the season, Gordon said in an open letter written last month. Gordon caught 24 passes for 323 yards in five games during the season, in which the Browns finished 7-9.
The Browns also suspended Gordon last month for a violation of team rules. Multiple reports indicated he, along with quarterback Johnny Manziel, did not appear at a team walkthrough.
- Mike Fiammetta
