Patriots ‘conditionally’ re-instating Josh Gordon following substance abuse violation
On August 16, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell notified Josh (“Flash”) Gordon of the New England Patriots that he will be reinstated to the NFL on a conditional basis. Effective today, Sunday, Gordon may rejoin the Patriots to attend meetings and engage in conditioning work and individual workouts.
Subject to appropriate progress on clinical care and other arrangements, he will be permitted to participate in team activities including practice. Because he will not have had sufficient conditioning and practice time, however, he may attend but may not play in the Patriots’ Thursday, August 22 game against the Panthers.
“We are all rooting for Josh to succeed, both personally and professionally,” said Goodell. “Everyone shares in that hope and will continue to support him to every extent possible. But as Josh acknowledged, ultimately his success is up to him.”
Gordon had been suspended indefinitely since December of 2018 for violations of the NFL-NFLPA Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.
The Patriots’ wide receiver should be re-joining his old team some time this week. Pats’ special teams captain Matthew Slater is looking forward for the reunion.
“A lot of hugs, I would imagine. A lot of smiles,” Slater said. “It will definitely be good to see him.”
“Josh is a very interesting guy, a very smart guy. Has a lot of different interests. He’s a fun guy to be around. I enjoyed my time with him and look forward to spending more time with him,” Slater said.
“We’re going to do everything we can to support him.” ~ Mass Live
During his last season playing with the Patriots, the 28-year-old scored three touchdowns and caught 40 complete passes for a total of 720 yards. His last season was cut short by two games due to what the NFL deemed then as his indefinite suspension.
(Source: NFL)
~ Written by Richard Webster, Ace News Today / Connect with Richard on Facebook and Twitter
