Josh Gordon has been one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL throughout his career, but there has been one major problem. He has been unable to play because of suspensions.
That's right, Gordon has spent the majority of his career on the sideline due to suspension. Most of his troubles have come from marijuana and drug test failures. In the games that he was able to play, he looked like a superstar and was one of the brightest up-and-coming players in the NFL.
Now, the Cleveland Browns are hoping that he can get back to being one of the top receivers in the game.
Josh Gordon to suit up for the Browns?
According to multiple reports, Josh Gordon has been reinstated by the NFL and will be able to suit up for the Browns later this season. He has learned his lessons the hard way and one can only hope that he remembers those lessons now that he is back to being an active NFL player.
Text from Michael Johnson, business manager for #Browns WR Josh Gordon: “The best football player in the world is back in the NFL.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 2, 2017
Throughout the 35 games that Gordon has been able to play in his NFL career, he has caught 161 passes for 2,754 yards and 14 touchdowns. His numbers speak for themselves and his return could not come at a better time for a Browns' franchise that has found it tough to find a true No.
1 wide receiver.
Head coach Hue Jackson has been working with receivers who are not considered legitimate No. 2 targets on most teams. That has not helped rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer at all. Perhaps the return of Gordon could take the Browns' offense to a level that it hasn't played at since he was on the field.
What should the Browns and their fans expect to see from Gordon after such a long time away from the game?
Looking to prove himself
Quite simply, they should expect exactly what they came to know and love when he was playing. Gordon is looking to prove himself again. He is looking to show that he is capable of still being a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver.
Cleveland is going to have to give him that chance if they want to continue building back towards playoff contention.
Kizer cannot continue being asked to throw to targets that won't make plays for him, even though he has shown that he can be a solid starting quarterback. Gordon has a troubled past, but his talent and potential are through the roof.
Gordon should be eligible to play for the final five games of the 2017 NFL season. Cleveland would be wise to use all of those games to see what Gordon can offer. If he comes out and puts up big numbers, the Browns should keep him in their long-term plans.
Expect to see Gordon make the most of his opportunity with the Browns this season. He is thankful for another chance to play in the NFL and hopefully, this time around he will take things seriously and stay out of trouble.
