Josh Gordon's suspension has been upheld, and the Browns wide receiver will miss the entire 2014 NFL season.
Gordon failed a drug test during the 2013 season, the second failed test in his brief NFL career. The player blamed the failed test on second-hand marijuana smoke and appealed to the NFL, but that appeal was struck down Wednesday morning.
The NFL took a full 27 days to decide Gordon's fate, leaving his fate hanging in the balance for much longer than expected. The Browns, aware of Gordon's failed test since early 2014, still decided not to draft a wide receiver in May.
Gordon led the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 despite being suspended for the first two games of the season.
Gordon released this statement through the NFLPA:
“I’d like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the Cleveland Browns organization and our fans. I am very disappointed that the NFL and its hearing office didn’t exercise better discretion and judgment in my case. I would like to sincerely thank the people who have been incredibly supportive of me during this challenging time, including my family, my agent, my union, my legal team, and the Cleveland Browns staff.”
MORE:
Your Ultimate 2014 Fantasy Football Draft Kit
Back to the NFL Newsfeed