Josh Gordon’s Empathy-Evoking Open Letter is Sure to Open Eyes Everywhere
Andrew Weber – USA TODAY Sports
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon has received more criticism over the past year than any other player in the NFL, all despite playing only five games in 2014. One of the most talented players in the league at just 23 years old, Gordon’s three-year professional career has already taken more twists and turns than just about any other player will experience throughout an entire career. After having his season-long suspension reduced to 10 games in 2014, Gordon once again finds himself facing another year without football in 2015.
Gordon fired back at his detractors early this afternoon, although in a mostly respectful manner, for the outpouring of criticism and what he describes as misguided concern directed his way since his latest slip up. The NFL suspended Gordon earlier this week for the entire 2015 season after he tested positive for alcohol, which he was prohibited from consuming following a DWI arrest in July of 2014.
In the open letter, which can be found HERE, directed namely at Charles Barkley, Stephen A. Smith, and Cris Carter, Gordon explains the assumptions and comments made to and about him hold little weight. The receiver continues by saying the people taking shots at him have little idea what they are talking about by repeatedly asserting, “The thing is, though, you don’t even know me.”
Gordon goes on to explain his rough upbringing and while making no excuses for his actions, declares, “I also have succeeded.” Escaping a youth “riddled with poverty, gang violence and very little in the way of guidance of support” is what Gordon attributes as his greatest success along with his victory over a “longstanding relationship with weed.”
In addition, by consistently repeating “I have failed myself,” Gordon owns up to his actions and completely accepts the punishments. The NFL’s receiving yardage leader in 2013 describes how he hasn’t smoked marijuana since being drafted by the Browns in 2012 and his few drinks aboard a private flight with some teammates that led to his latest positive test were the first he’s had since his DWI arrest in July of last year.
Whether you feel sympathetic or not, Gordon did accomplish one thing by clearing the air about the events that led to his suspensions. Hopefully this latest incident is the last negative news we hear about him for awhile and this open letter helps Gordon move on and get his life back on track.
2015 NFL Mock Draft: Chargers At No. 17
Who do the Chargers take at no. 17 in this updated mock draft series? Find out who and why here. Read More
5 Players Packers Must Release In 2015 Offseason
These are the five players the Green Bay Packers must release during the 2015 offseason. Read More
Making the Case for Cowboys' Murray as NFL MVP
Few pegged America's Team to be playing football late in the postseason this year. The Cowboys' running back thought otherwise and carried them to the playoffs for the first time since 2009. Read More
5 Potential Cap Casualties for the Lions in 2015
The Detroit Lions need to try and re-sign Ndamukong Suh as well as add to a team that disappointed in the playoffs. Who might get cut in order to make some room? Read More
5 Best Years the Lions Could Have Made Super Bowl
The Detroit Lions have not appeared in the Super Bowl, but here were their five best chances to reach the big game throughout their history. Read More
Steelers Fans Interestingly Found ‘Most Profane’
In a finding sure to reaffirm stereotypes and pad out bar trivia across the country, Steelers fans have been found most guilty of dipping into the social media swear jar. But why? Read More
5 Best OT Options for Lions in 2015 NFL Draft
These five offensive tackle prospects are the ones that the Detroit Lions should target in the 2015 NFL Draft. See why here. Read More
Antonio Brown Deserves to Be Named AFC North OPOY
Another week, another accolade for another member of Pittsburgh’s Killer Bs. See exactly why Antonio Brown was the AFC North's best offensive player in 2014. Read More
5 Jaguars Who Will Be Released in 2015 Offseason
The Jacksonville Jaguars will end up releasing a surprising amount of good talent this offseason. Who's gone? Read More
Playoff Loss Blessing in Disguise for Steelers
Recent reports about the knee injury suffered by one of the league’s best backs suggest the Pittsburgh Steelers were lucky to lose in the wild-card round. Read More
5 Bengals Who Will Be Released in 2015 Offseason
The Cincinnati Bengals need to make a big move this offseason if they are ever going to become true contenders. They will need to move some vets to make them, though. Read More
Packers' Bostick Needs to Follow Slocum's Footstep
On Friday, the Packers showed special teams coordinator Shawn Slocum the door after labeling him the scapegoat for Green Bay's collapse. Brandon Bostick better be next. Read More