Cleveland Browns News: Josh Gordon Entering Rehab, How Long Will Star WR Be Out?

The comeback remains on hold for Josh Gordon. The Cleveland Browns star wide receiver, who lit up the league in 2013 on his way to a Pro Bowl appearance, announced on Thursday that he will enter a rehabilitation facility.

"After careful thought and deep consideration I've decided that I need to step away from pursuing my return to the Browns and my football career to enter an in-patient rehabilitation facility," Gordon said in a statement. "This is the right decision for me and one that I hope will enable me to gain full control of my life and continue on a path to reach my full potential as a person. I appreciate the support of the NFL, NFLPA, the Browns, my teammates, my agent and the community through this extremely challenging process."

Gordon was reinstated on July 25 by commissioner Roger Goodell, after serving a suspension for the entire 2015 season for violations of the NFL's substance abuse policies. He was expected to make his return on Oct. 9 in Week 5 of the NFL season against the New England Patriots after completing a four-game suspension.

Gordon has a long of list of behavioral problems and suspensions. He was suspended two games in 2013 and 10 games in 2014. In total, Brown has played just 35 games since entering the league in the 2012 NFL Draft.

A timetable for his return remains unclear. On Thursday, Gordon posted a message on Twitter that read: "See ya soon" with a thumbs up.

Sashi Brown, the Browns' Executive VP of Football Operations, issued a statement of support for the 25-year-old.

"We support Josh in taking this step to seek additional help and treatment. His singular focus must be on his own health. We want nothing more than for Josh to be successful personally and professionally and will not comment on his status with the organization at this time."