Browns would play Josh Gordon if cleared for Sunday
By Mike Dyce
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon is currently serving a season-long suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. The league and the NFL Player’s Association are negotiating a new drug policy, and if a deal is agreed upon it could reduce Gordon’s suspension, as well as those of Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker and Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick.
But if Gordon was cleared, would the Browns immediately trot him out onto the field? Yes they would according to offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan.
#browns oc Kyle shanahan on josh Gordon: "if josh were able to play this week I'd like to get him out there. I think he'd be able to help"
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) September 11, 2014
But as NFL media insider Ian Rapoport points out, a new drug policy doesn’t automatically mean Gordon is eligible.
From @AlbertBreer & me: Retroactive suspensions has not been divisive for potential new policy. If deal approved, new standards would apply
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 10, 2014
What’s it mean? Players suspended in 2014 league year get new standards. If approved, Welker & Scandrick play Sun. Gordon more complicated
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 10, 2014
Every 2014 league year suspension will be reviewed, if deal is approved. Josh Gordon failed his drug test in 2013, so wait and see on him.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 10, 2014
It would certainly open the door for a return at some point in 2014 though.