Josh Gordon might not be playing football in the NFL for a long, long time — if ever — after his reinstatement bid was rejected by the NFL, per Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.
BREAKING: #Browns Josh Gordon's petition for reinstatement denied, a league source tells https://t.co/o11vJSOExu https://t.co/eLkiYcGiT6
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) April 12, 2016
An earlier report suggested Gordon might be able to be reinstated if he could provide the NFL with clean urine tests for between 60-90 days following a reported diluted sample failed a test he took in March.
However, that doesn’t appear to be the case any longer. Whether because a new test revealed more evidence that Gordon hasn’t been staying away from marijuana or even alcohol or because Gordon’s lawyer is now asking for an investigation into why the failed test was ever revealed in the first place, the NFL has decided to put its foot down on the receiver.
With three suspensions under his belt and this latest setback it’s hard to imagine Gordon will ever set foot on an NFL field again.
The Cleveland Browns, knowing what kind of talent he possesses, have stuck with him through thick and thin throughout the process. One wonders how much longer that patience will last at this point, though.
One also wonders if reports that Gordon and Johnny Manziel are living together had anything to do with the league’s decision. Cabot reports Gordon can reapply later in the year, but given his history this could signal the end for him.