Josh Gordon Applies For Reinstatement

Josh Gordon is looking to get back on the field. Sources tell veteran NFL reporter Howard Balzer that the Patriots wideout has filed for reinstatement from suspension (Twitter link).

Back in December, Gordon was suspended indefinitely for violating terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy. We learned at the time that Gordon’s drug use went beyond marijuana, an indication that the troubled receiver was dealing with issues that were much bigger than football. We know that the 28-year-old was at a rehabilitation clinic for at least part of the offseason, and if he’s looking to make an immediate return to the field, we can only assume that he’s clean.

The Patriots retained Gordon‘s rights on via RFA tender earlier this offseason, and the suspended wide receiver was recently spotted training with Tom Brady. While the defending Super Bowl champions would naturally welcome back the talented receiver, he’d have to prove to be a “better version of himself” off the field than what showed up in New England last year.

The Patriots knew the risk associated with the ultra-talented Gordon when they acquired him from the Browns in September. The rest of the league knew the risks involved as well, which is why the Pats were able to land the former All-Pro for a fifth-round pick, with a seventh-round choice coming back. Gordon’s ultimately compiled 40 catches, 720 yards, and three touchdowns across eleven games.

Even after adding Cameron Meredith yesterday, the Patriots could still use some reinforcement at wide receiver. Julian Edelman is dealing with a thumb injury while Demaryius Thomas is working his way back from the PUP list. This leaves the team with a healthy grouping that includes first-rounder N’Keal Harry, former first-rounder Phillip DorsettMaurice HarrisJakobi MeyersBraxton Berrios, and Dontrelle Inman.

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