Josh Gordon’s time with the Cleveland Browns is up, but the talented wide receiver will still have a chance to make an impact elsewhere.
On Sunday, the Browns announced that they intend to release the 27-year-old, who has a chequered history that includes substance abuse.
However, it’s expected that Cleveland will instead trade Gordon as a number of teams have reportedly shown interest.
While Gordon doesn’t have any say in where he gets traded, two teams he’s hoping pursue him are the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers, according to reports.
If for whatever reason Gordon is released, he won’t be subject to waivers and will become an outright free agent as a vested veteran.
That’s unlikely to be the case though as Gordon remains an intriguing player with immense ability, making him a tantalising option for teams especially in need of wide receiver help.
The Cowboys and 49ers certainly fit the bill, as do the New England Patriots – who have the kind of structure and stability in place to deter Gordon’s worst habits.
After news came out of the Browns’ decision, Gordon posted an Instagram story thanking the organisation and fans, while adding at the end: “P.S. Anybody need a deep threat WR??”
His stellar 2013 season, in which he snagged 87 receptions for 1,646 yards and nine touchdowns, is well in the rearview mirror, but as Gordon has shown in the limited time he’s spent on the field over the past three years, he still has big-play ability.
Of course, there’s no guarantee that Gordon will fare any better off the field in his next stop.
While the details over the Browns’ decision to move on from Gordon are murky, ESPN reported part of the reason for the move was that he showed up on Saturday with a hamstring injury after being a full participants in practice all week.
