The Cleveland Browns are the definition of two steps forward, one step backwards. Hope was restored this offseason when the team took the most talked about player in the draft, Johnny Manziel. However, as quickly as faith was restored, it was taken away when stud wide receiver failed a drug test. Because it was his second failed drug test, Gordon was given a year suspension.
Gordon filed an appeal trying to reduce the suspension, however, after review Roger Goodell and the NFL decided to uphold their initial decision. Gordon released a statement after the news broke. He said, “I’d like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the Cleveland Browns organization and our fan. I am very disappointed that the NFL and its hearing office didn’t exercise better discretion and judgment in my case. I would like to sincerely thank the people who have been incredibly supportive of me during this challenging time, including my family, my agent, my union, my legal team, and the Cleveland Browns staff.”
Gordon met with arbitrator Harold Henderson on August 4th regarding his suspension. Gordon is prohibited from practicing with the Browns and attending team meetings. He is also still subject to random drug testings. Gordon has appeared in all three preseason games this season further infuriating the team as he took snaps away from other receivers trying to make a roster spot.
