WR Josh Gordon Returns To Browns

Josh Gordon is back. The wideout announced this morning (via Twitter) that he’d be returning to the Browns. Gordon had been absent from training camp and the Browns’ first two preseason games as he worked on his mental and physical health.

“…I would like to thank the NFL, NFLPA, the entire Cleveland Browns organization, the University of Florida, and my friend and business manager Michael Johnson Jr for playing such pivotal roles during this process,” Gordon said. “This has by no means been an easy road and I’m extremely grateful to have all of you in my life.”

“As I humbly return to being a member of this team with an opportunity to get back to playing this game I love, I realize in order for me to reach my full potential my primary focus must remain on my sobriety and mental well-being.”

Gordon had announced back in June that he wouldn’t be attending the early part of preseason as he focused on his treatment program. However, there wasn’t a definitive return date, and the team subsequently placed the receiver on the non-football injury. Gordon, who has had substance abuse issues throughout his career, didn’t sit out due to a failed drug test, and he isn’t expected to be suspended. The team seemed to echo that sentiment in a statement.

“First off, we are pleased for Josh. His overall health and well-being is what is most important. We commend Josh for his hard work, commitment and focus on becoming the best version of himself,” said general manager John Dorsey (via Patrick Maks of ClevelandBrowns.com).

“We are glad Josh has reached a point where he can return to our organization, be in our building and be around his teammates. As he assimilates back to our team, Josh will initially participate in meetings and conditioning and will gradually resume all football activities as deemed appropriate.”

While it may take Gordon a while to get into shape, he’ll surely slide atop the Browns’ depth chart when he’s ready to go. The 27-year-old has only played in 10 games since 2014, but he was productive following his return to the Browns last season. In five games (five starts), Gordon hauled in 18 receptions for 335 yards and one touchdown. The receiver’s best season came in 2013, when he compiled 87 catches for 1,646 yards and nine scores.

After trading former first-rounder Corey Coleman earlier this month, the Browns receiver depth is questionable behind offseason addition Jarvis Landry. If Gordon ends up missing any regular season time, the Browns will have to turn to two of Antonio CallawayRashard Higgins, Jeff Janis, and Damion Ratley for starting gigs. Free agent wideout Dez Bryant was recently discussing a deal with the Browns, and it’s uncertain if Gordon’s return will impact negotiations.

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