Josh Gordon To Miss Start Of Cleveland Browns Training Camp

CLEVELAND, OH — Much maligned Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon will not be at the start of the team's training camp. The uber-talented 27-year-old has been suspended multiple times for violating the NFL's substance abuse policies, and he said being absent from the team's camp is part of his health plan.

"Just like you, I am excited to start the season and I have every intention of being ready and available to join my teammates soon to bring winning football to our fans," Gordon said in a message posted to Twitter on Monday morning.

Missing the beginning of the camp was reportedly part of Gordon's and the Browns' team doctor's plans, the wide receiver said in his message. Gordon thanked the fans for their patience and support.

New Browns General Manager John Dorsey issued his own statement, saying the organization would continue to support Gordon's efforts to get well. "Josh will be placed on the non-football illness reserve list until he is ready to return," Dorsey said.

Gordon entered an in-patient rehabilitation facility in late 2016, after several high-profile suspensions for substance-abuse violations. Prior to entering the rehab facility, Gordon failed both drug and alcohol tests, and sat out all of the 2015 and 2016 seasons while serving a substance abuse-related suspension.

The wide receiver returned to the gridiron in 2017 and played five games. He caught 14 passes for 335 yards and one touchdown.

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Photo from Rick Uldricks, Patch