If the new collective bargaining agreement goes through as proposed, the league will no longer suspend players for positive drug tests for marijuana. The often suspended Josh Gordon will ultimately be reinstated for the umpteenth time.
If this was part of the previous CBA Gordon’s career would have definitely played out differently. The promise he showed in his small samples of times on the field. He had the makings of a top tier wide receiver. Since being drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2012 supplemental draft, he has only played 63 career games. He has been suspended five times for violating the league’s substance-abuse policy.
In his rookie season with the Browns, Gordon had 50 catches for 805 yards and five touchdowns.
He won a Super Bowl as part of the New England Patriots that defeated the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl 53.
Most teams would steer clear of a player who could be suspended at any minute. If the new CBA gets the player’s approval, I believe Gordon has shown enough in his limited time on the field for teams to express interest.
Here are five potential landing spots for Josh Gordon.
Seattle Seahawks
In his brief five-game sample, Gordon was just getting acclimated with the offense. Pete Carroll would likely take another shot on the 28-year-old wide receiver. With Tyler Lockett and the emergence of D.K. Metcalf, if Russell Wilson has another receiving threat in Gordon, it definitely wouldn’t hurt the offense.
New England Patriots
Would Bill Belichek give Gordon another chance? Gordon had earned the trust of Tom Brady before a knee injury that ultimately led to his release in New England. He knows the system so that would be an added plus.
Dallas Cowboys
Whether they resign Amari Cooper or not, Gordon could be a no-brainer for Jerry Jones. He would be a low risk, high reward signing in Big D.
Philadelphia Eagles
The biggest detriment for the Eagles offense last season was their depleted receiving corp, due to injuries. A bigger market like Philly could be an added positive to Gordon, as the microscope will be that much larger for him.
New York Giants
Speaking of bigger markets, the NFC team that plays is the biggest market, maybe the perfect fit for Josh Gordon. Yes, the media pressure would be the likes that he’s never seen. But with the new coaching staff, the pressure on second-year quarterback Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley getting back to his dominating rookie form, Gordon wouldn’t be front and center as far as the media. A veteran receiver could be a quarterback under immense pressure’s best friend.
Whether it’s one of these five teams or another, Josh Gordon will in all likelihood be back on an NFL field in 2020. He may finally get to achieve the potential foreseen for him after his rookie season. Although in the minority I have always liked the guy. If reinstated, he may even make my fantasy draft board.
