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The NFL's new collective bargaining agreement is ending suspensions for positive marijuana tests, but that doesn't mean formerly suspended players are automatically given the go-ahead to return. For example, the new CBA won't automatically reinstate Josh Gordon.
Near the end of the 2019 season, Gordon was suspended indefinitely for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs and substance abuse. Unfortunately, it wasn't Gordon's first time being suspended by the NFL for substance abuse.
Over the course of his NFL career, Gordon has been suspended five times for substance abuse. But with the new CBA, players who test positive for marijuana are no longer subject to a suspension. Rather than have the player miss games, they will now be fined.
This past season, Gordon was released by the New England Patriots after the team traded for Mohamed Sanu. Following his release, the big-play wideout signed with the Seattle Seahawks. In his five games with the Seahawks, he managed to catch just seven passes for 139 yards.
With Gordon serving an indefinite banishment, he would have to apply for reinstatement into the NFL. Then, Roger Goodell would make the ultimate decision on whether or not Gordon is fit to return to the league.
Also, even if Gordon is reinstated, he could be suspended under the new CBA. Within the new CBA, it highlights that any violations by a past offender can still result in indefinite suspension. Contrary to belief, it is still an uphill climb for Gordon to return to the NFL, even with new guidelines in place.
