It goes without saying that Josh Gordon has not gone without struggle since his NFL career began. The New England Patriots (9-5) wide receiver announced via Twitter on Thursday that he will step away from the game to focus on his mental health. In his statement, Gordon thanked the organization and specifically team owner Robert Kraft and head coach Bill Belichick for their support during his time on the Patriots.
New England sent the Cleveland Browns (6-7-1) a 2019 fifth-round draft pick in exchange for the troubled yet talented 27- year old pass catcher. In the 11 games he played for the Patriots this season, Gordon was able to snag 40 passes for 720 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Gordon did not play a down in both the 2015 and 2016 NFL seasons due to several violations of the NFL substance abuse policy. The star receiver even missed the start of training camp this season for the Browns to receive treatment and counseling.
The NFL is losing one of the most all-around talented receivers in the game in Gordon and not only will the Pats miss him but fans around the country will too. The Patriots, having come off of back to back losses to the Miami Dolphins (7-7) and the Pittsburgh Steelers (8-5-1) will have to rely on the rest of their bevy of pass catchers to replace the production lost in Gordon.
