Source: Josh Gordon tests positive for alcohol, faces another ban

By foxsports
Published

Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon has failed another drug test, this time for alcohol, and could face a one-year ban.

A source confirmed to FOX Sports NFL insider Mike Garafolo that the failed test was for alcohol, and that his potential suspension could span one calendar year.

ESPN's Adam Schefter first reported the failed test, citing league sources.

The Browns later released a statement regarding the failed test.

"Clearly we are very disappointed to hear the latest report regarding Josh," the team said. "At this point, due to the confidential nature of the NFL’s substance abuse policy, we have not been made aware by the league of a failed test. We are in the process of gathering more information and will provide further comment at the appropriate time.”

Agent Drew Rosenhaus said he could not comment on his client's situation when reached by The Associated Press. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy declined comment to The AP.

"I keep in touch with Josh a lot," Browns cornerback Joe Haden said Sunday night at the Pro Bowl in Glendale, Ariz. "He's actually renting my spot right now back in Cleveland. But I don't know about that. I'll find out about that in a little bit.

"I don't really know what the situation is, but I'm going to figure it out."

Gordon's latest misstep could lead to the team releasing the talented 23-year-old.

Gordon missed the first two games in 2013 but still led the league with 1,646 yards receiving and emerged as the one of the league's top playmakers. Last year, he received a one-year suspension that was reduced to 10 games after the league and Player's Association revised its drug policies.

He ultimately played in only five games; he was suspended by the Browns for violating team rules before the season finale. He led the league with 1,646 yards receiving in 2013.

A second-round pick in the 2012 supplemental draft, Gordon signed a four-year contract worth $5.3 million as a rookie. He figured to cash in with a bigger contract following his monster '13 season, but Gordon's legal issues -- he was arrested for drunken driving during his suspension last season -- have clouded a bright future.

Gordon failed several drug tests while in college.