Up in Smoke

One thing is certain about the 2014 NFL season, there will be a new WR king.  Browns WR Josh Gordon found out on August 27, 2014  the entire 2014 football season as well as the 2015 preseason would be blown up in a haze of smoke
Less than 10 days before the start of the 2014 season the NFL upheld a year long suspension against Josh Gordon for violating the substance abuse policy for testing positive for marijuana. With the exception of the Cleveland Browns organization no one was surprised by the strict ban. Quite frankly, the Browns should not have been surprised either. Gordon missed the first two games of the 2013 season due to substance abuse violations. Gordon still managed to finish the season with more receptions than any other wide receiver. Though the suspension leaves a void in the Brown offensive core not even Cleveland Brown fans should waste to many tears on poor Josh Gordon.  The substance abuse policy is clearly spelled out in every NFL contract per the league CBA (collective bargaining agreement).

This is not Gordon’s first time at the suspension rodeo. He has suffered with issues repeatedly since his college. Clearly, the young man has a problem but that dos not mean he is not culpable for his actions. All of his past infractions have come during the off season, it’ clear in Gordon’s case idle time is indeed the devil’s paradise.  Maybe Gordon should spend more time taking responsibility for his actions, getting help for his  issues, and less time blaming the NFL. In a statement issued after the league ruling was made public Gordon said,  “I’d like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the Cleveland Browns organization and our fans. I am very disappointed that the NFL and its hearing office didn’t exercise better discretion and judgment in my case.” Really, Mr. Gordon whether you agree with the policy or not you signed a contract agreeing to adhere to the policy. Violating it repeatedly does not show a lack of discretion and judgement on the NFL’s behalf  but instead beams a spotlight on you. If anyone should exercise better discretion and judgment it is you.