Seattle Seahawks’ Wide Receiver Josh Gordon Has Been Reinstated

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Josh Gordon has been conditionally reinstated by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Gordon will be eligible to play the last two regular-season games.

The 29-year-old wide receiver is a former Pro-Bowler back in 2013 during his stint with the Cleveland Browns. Gordon was claimed by the Seahawks off waivers last season. Gordon only played in five games with Seattle before his suspension. In five games, he recorded seven catches for 139 yards.

Last season, Gordon was suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances and substances of abuse. It was not the first violation that the wide receiver had. Throughout his career, he has faced multiple suspensions for violating the policy and was suspended for the entire 2015 and 2016 NFL season.

With his suspension now lifted, it would have been almost an exact year since he played. He was suspended last season with two games remaining in the regular season. Now he could play in the final two games of the regular season.

Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson has expressed his thoughts on Gordon’s reinstatement. “He’s an amazing receiver,” Wilson said. A guy who was great for us last year made some great plays. Obviously, he’s been a great player over his years, but more than anything else, it’s a testament hopefully to his growth in life. You always want to see people overcome challenges and everything else. He did a tremendous job of really bonding with the guys, fitting in the right way. He was about the approach, he was studying his playbook, he was ready to roll, he made great plays for us, but he just fit in the right way. He was about the work ethic. Coach [Pete Carroll] does a great job of giving guys chances… I’m rooting for him to be able to overcome, and hopefully this time it’s better than the last time.”

Gordon will be able to start COVID-19 testing on Friday. If he tests negative then, he will be able to participate in individual meetings and team meetings. However, he is not able to practice or travel with the team until December 21 after Seattles’ week 15 game against Washington. He will be able to practice and play in their week 16 game against the Los Angeles Rams.