Browns' Gordon to miss start of camp in reported proactive move to seek counseling
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon announced Monday he'll miss the beginning of training camp while continuing to work on his personal health.
The 27-year-old is taking the absence to proactively seek additional counseling for anxiety and his mental health, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Gordon, who played just 10 games over the previous four seasons because of suspensions related to substance abuse, said in a statement via Twitter that he's "doing great" both physically and mentally:
To my Cleveland Browns and NFL family,
I am reaching out to you all personally and letting you know that I am not only doing great physically but mentally as well. You will notice that I will not be in Cleveland for the start of training camp. Rest assured this too is a part of my overall health and treatment plan. I appreciate the awesome support I have received from teammates, friends, fans, and the Brown's organization. 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 help bring winning football to our fans.
With the help of the NFL, NFLPA, and the Browns' organization, I have been able to utilize the resources available to me that will ensure my well-being on and off the field. By continuing to follow the plan set up by our medical director and his team and taking this time before this season starts, we believe it will help me maintain the progress I've made for not only today but for many years to come. Thank you all for your patience, love, and support! Go Browns!
Sincerely,
Josh Gordon
Any speculation that Gordon's absence from the start of camp could be the result of another ban is reportedly false, as a source told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero the dynamic pass-catcher is "absolutely not suspended."
However, an NFL spokesperson told Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com that there is currently "no timetable for his return," adding that the league will address the matter at the appropriate time.
Browns general manager John Dorsey said Gordon will be placed on the non-football illness reserve list until he's ready to return.
"We will continue to support Josh as he receives the care needed to maintain his progress," Dorsey said in a statement. "We are going to respect his privacy while he is away from the team."
After finally obtaining reinstatement from the NFL late last year, Gordon made 18 receptions for 335 yards and one touchdown across five contests.
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