Josh Gordon won't be taking the field with the Browns next week.
The 25-year-old Browns wide receiver will instead enter an in-patient rehabilitation program, according to a statement released by the team on Thursday.
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“After careful thought and deep consideration I’ve decided that I need to step away from pursuing my return to the Browns and my football career to enter an in-patient rehabilitation facility," Gordon said in the statement. "This is the right decision for me and one that I hope will enable me to gain full control of my life and continue on a path to reach my full potential as a person. I appreciate the support of the NFL, NFLPA, the Browns, my teammates, my agent and the community through this extremely challenging process.”
Gordon later expanded on his reason for entering rehab, via Twitter:
Under some pressure & stress recently, had to take a time out for myself.Sometimes you have to do what's best for you. Thank u @nfl @Browns
— Flash Gordon (@JOSH_GORDONXII) September 29, 2016
Gordon was suspended for the first four games of the season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. He was expected to play in his first regular-season game since December 2014 during the Browns' Oct. 9 game against the Patriots.
“We support Josh in taking this step to seek additional help and treatment," Sashi Brown, the team's executive VP of football operations, said. "His singular focus must be on his own health. We want nothing more than for Josh to be successful personally and professionally and will not comment on his status with the organization at this time.”
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It's unclear how long Gordon will be in the rehabilitation program, but Gordon gave hope for fans hoping to see him this year.
See ya soon.. 👍🏾
— Flash Gordon (@JOSH_GORDONXII) September 29, 2016
Gordon previously was suspended for two games in 2013 for violating the league's drug program, then 10 games the following season for another violation and one additional game that year for violating team rules. The NFL then suspended Gordon for the entire 2015 season.