The Cleveland Browns on Monday morning made a joint announcement with star wide receiver Josh Gordon that he would be stepping away from the team to continue to get help and counseling to avoid any other issues arising.
This had brought forth questions of whether he had violations or slip-ups along the way since he returned, which Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that is not the case as it's merely him taking the initiative to receive more help to make sure he can maintain that balance in his life.
Browns’ WR Josh Gordon did not have any slip ups or failed tests, per sources. His leave is a pro-active, defensive gesture to get extra counseling to try to ensure he does not have any of the setbacks that have marked his past. Those who know him say he has “worked his a— off.”
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 23, 2018
This was a choice that the Browns have full support for Gordon as he goes through this part of the process that will push him away from the team in training camp. There is no timetable for his return, but he has made it clear that he will be back to help the team this upcoming season where he's expected to be a big piece of the puzzle in the passing game.
Since returning to the team, Gordon has taken a huge step forward by keeping order in his life to stay out of the things that previously got him in trouble. This has also seen him put himself in great physical shape to be ready to play in another NFL season with the Browns that saw the team commit to a one-year deal for the 2018 campaign.
In the five games that he played this past season, he had shown flashes that he still possesses plenty of talent after making 18 catches on 43 targets for 335 receiving yards and a touchdown. There was no drop off in his physical ability and production on the field as that could take off to greater heights next season. At this moment, his focus remains on his mental health to be able to stay on the right path.
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