There is apparently a very real chance that New England Patriots star receiver Josh Gordon never plays in the NFL again.
Gordon announced Thursday morning that he was taking a leave from the Patriots in order to focus on his mental health. However, according to multiple reports, Gordon is facing another indefinite suspension from the NFL.
According to Tom Pelissero, the suspension would be handed down because the electric receiver might have violated the terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy. It now sounds like there is a very real chance Gordon never steps on an NFL field again. (RELATED: Here Are The Best Moments From Week 15 Of The NFL Season)
#Patriots WR Josh Gordon is facing another indefinite suspension for violating terms of his reinstatement under the substance abuse policy, per source. He announced today he’s stepping away to address his mental health.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 20, 2018
From our developing news segment on #Patriots WR Josh Gordon stepping away while facing another indefinite suspension. @nflnetwork @gmfb pic.twitter.com/VcjZhgkvMO
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 20, 2018
Patriots WR Josh Gordon is facing a potential suspension for violating the terms of his conditional reinstatement under the NFL’s drug policy, a source confirms. Gordon is obviously not expected to play again this season. @TomPelissero was first to report potential suspension.
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) December 20, 2018
Josh Gordon facing potential suspension for violating terms of his conditional reinstatement under NFL drug policy, per @TomPelissero and @DanGrazianoESPN. Final punishment yet to be decided, but Gordon not expected to play again this season or maybe ever again.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 20, 2018
At this point in time, we don’t have any idea what the suspected violation could be. It could be a failed test, it could be a missed test or a variety of different options. The NFL has a wide net it can cast to find violations.
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What a terrible turn of events for Gordon. It looked like he had finally gotten his life turned around, was on a good path with the Patriots, was playing for a contender and now it sounds like he’s fallen right back into trouble.
Substance abuse issues are no laughing matter, and they’ve dogged Gordon for years.
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At this point, his football career shouldn’t be the focus at all. Gordon making sure his life is figured out and on a good path is the only thing that should matter to anybody.
Hopefully, the Patriots and the NFL are able to find him whatever help he might need. Unfortunately, it looks like the story of Josh Gordon will serve as a cautionary tale for young players everywhere.
What an awful outcome for the receiver.