Cleveland Browns star wide receiver Josh Gordon has announced that he'll miss the start of training camp, but it's not because of any troublesome off-field issues. Gordon took to social media today to address the situation and assure Browns fans that his absence is part of his "overall health and treatment plan."
The 27-year old wide receiver was reinstated last year after missing the 2015 and 2016 seasons because of suspensions related to violations of the NFL's substance abuse policy. In the statement released today, Gordon says he is "doing great" both physically and mentally, and "excited to start the season."
“To my Cleveland Browns and NFL family,
I am reaching out to you all personally and letting you know that I am not only doing great physically but mentally as well.
I will not be in Cleveland for the start of training camp. Rest assured this too is a part of my overall health and treatment plan. I appreciate the awesome support I have received from teammates, friends, fans, and the Brown’s organization. Just like you, I am excited to start the season and I have every intention of being ready and available to join my teammates soon to help bring winning football to our fans. With the help of the NFL, NFLPA, and the Browns’ organization, I have been able to utilize the resources available to me that will ensure my well-being on and off the field. By continuing to follow the plan set up by our medical director and his team and taking this time before this season starts, we believe it will help me maintain the progress I’ve made for not only today but for many years to come. Thank you all for your patience, love, and support! Go Browns!”
Last month, Browns rookie quarterback Baker Mayfied spoke highly of the talented wide receiver. "I’ve never seen anybody like him," Mayfield said of Gordon, according to Andrew Gribble of the Browns' website.
In five games last season with the Browns, Gordon recorded 18 receptions for 335 yards and a touchdown. In 2013, when Jason Campbell, Brian Hoyer and Brandon Weeden were quarterbacking the Browns, Gordon racked up a league-best 1,646 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 87 catches in 14 games. He also become the first receiver in league history to record consecutive 200-yard receiving games during that season.
https://twitter.com/_/status/1021398682619572225
