NFL Rumors: Former All-Pro Wide Receiver Looking To Return In 2020 After Suspension

Josh Gordon is trying to come back from yet another NFL suspension. The wide receiver sent his letter for reinstatement to the league yesterday, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, looking to play in the 2020 season.

Gordon began the 2019 season with the New England Patriots, but he was released in late October while recovering from an injury. After joining the Seattle Seahawks and playing five games, Gordon was suspended indefinitely for violating the league’s substance-abuse policy.

It was the latest in a long line of suspensions that have plagued Gordon’s career. The 29-year-old was suspended for all of 2015 and 2016 as a member of the Cleveland Browns. Gordon was traded to New England during the 2018 season, but he was again suspended indefinitely that December.

Adam Kenner, Gordon’s lawyer, told Pelissero that the receiver relapsed following his brother’s death in November.

“Josh had a lapse because of his brother’s death,” Kenner said. “But since that time, he has realized how important it is for him to take the right steps, do what’s proper and understand how to manage these issues. He’s installed the right team around him to make sure he’s on the right path. He understands he’s been given every chance. He looks forward to making the most of this.”

Cleveland selected Gordon in the second round of the 2012 supplemental draft and he quickly became one of the NFL’s top playmakers. Gordon was a 2013 First-Team All-Pro selection, leading the league with 1,646 yards in just 14 games.

Gordon hasn’t played more than 12 games in a season since his breakout year. He had 27 catches for 426 yards and a touchdown last year. Only seven of those catches came with Seattle.

In 2018, Gordon was very productive until he was suspended, catching 40 passes for 720 yards in 11 games with the Patriots.

If Gordon is reinstated, he’ll become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career.