Former Patriots WR Josh Gordon suspended for fifth time in his career after violating NFL substance policies
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Seahawks wide receiver Josh Gordon, who started the 2019 season as a member of the Patriots, has been suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL’s policies on performance-enhancing substances and substances of abuse, per multiple reports.
The Patriots placed Gordon on injured reserve with a minor injury on Oct. 23, which meant that the team would have to waive him once he got healthy. They waived Gordon on Oct. 31 and the Seahawks claimed him on Nov. 1.
It’s unclear when Gordon committed the violation that triggered the suspension, the fifth of his career. But it’s a possible explanation for why the Patriots decided to move on from him, which seemed like a peculiar decision at the time.
Gordon played five games for the Seahawks, catching seven passes for 139 yards. In six games with the Patriots this season, he made 20 catches for 287 yards and a touchdown.
After receiving a surprise reinstatement in 2019 following his fourth suspension, Gordon may not get the same latitude again. It’s fair to wonder if this will mark the end of his NFL career. What’s long established is that he has intense personal demons and staying active in football hasn’t stopped them. It goes without saying at this point that he needs serious help when it comes to substance abuse.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at [email protected].
