Josh Gordon learned the importance of punctuality on Saturday, when the Cleveland Browns suspended him for their final game of 2014.
Why? Violation of team rules. Gordon, a wide receiver, missed a mandatory walk-through ahead of Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens.
Gordon's season ends on the reserve/suspended list because was late for previous team functions, according to The Plain Dealer of Cleveland. Those incidents led to fines and warnings.
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Johnny Manziel was late for Saturday's treatment on his bum hamstring, according to The Plain Dealer. Manziel was already ruled out for Sunday's game, and his tardiness resulted in a fine.
There is an upside for the Browns, according to the report. Gordon finishes the season having played five games, which means he didn't accrue a full contract season. Pending appeal by his agent, Gordon's contract now extends another year, through 2016 and likely delays his ability to become a free agent.
Gordon ran afoul of the NFL in 2013 when he was suspended two games for a failed drug test, allegedly cough syrup that contained codeine.
Another failed drug test led to a 10-game suspension to start the 2014 season.
Saturday's banishment was leveled by the team. The previous two came from the NFL. The Browns, it must be noted, backed him during his league suspensions. His poor decision Saturday can only shake their faith in Gordon.
The sum total is this: Gordon continues to create problems for himself while the Browns need him to mature and be a talented playing wide receiver.
Fulfilling that expectation has been problematic. The Plain Dealer notes that Browns officials were not pleased with Gordon the past three games.
If the Browns are thinking of ridding themselves of Gordon, the added year on his contract would help them find a suitor. Even as a supposed problem child, Gordon has the talent to help a team needing wide receiver help. If, that is, he truly wants to play in the NFL.