Patriots' Gordon releases statement: 'I plan to focus on the present'

New England Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon is moving forward following his return to the NFL.

Gordon hasn't addressed the media since his reinstatement to the NFL in August, but he wrote a statement Friday in which he explained his late-season departure from New England in 2018 and that he's no longer revisiting his past.

"Before the 2019 season starts, I would like to address an issue that arose toward the end of last season," Gordon said. "It's been well-documented that I have battled substance abuse for quite some time.

"Unfortunately, I did not take the time to focus on a solution to my problem until this past year. I am eternally grateful for the constant support from the NFL, NFLPA, and the Patriots organization. I also want to thank my family, friends, and all the fans who supported me while I addressed this issue.

"Going forward, I will not be discussing the details of my past. I plan to focus on the present and getting better every day. I hope people will judge me on what I do now and in the future. I look forward to being a member of the Patriots once again this season and doing my part by contributing on and off the field."

Gordon suited up for the Patriots' preseason finale and caught two passes for 30 yards.

The 28-year-old, who led the league in receiving yards in 2013 before missing multiple years due to suspension, is set to play in New England's regular-season opener Sunday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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