Instant Analysis: Josh Gordon Facing Suspension

gordon

According to ESPN, the Cleveland Browns are facing a major blow in the wake of their first round selection of Johnny Manziel.  If reports are true, elite receiver Josh Gordon is facing a season-long suspension after another failed drug test, again for marijuana.

Information is leaking out at en ever-quickening pace but the most recent report suggests Browns’ management has known about the failed drug test for nearly two weeks, calling into question the logic behind last night’s trade of the fourth overall selection with the Buffalo Bills, a selection that could have been used on elite rookie receiver Sammy Watkins.  We remind everyone that nothing yet has been confirmed and that everything is suspect until we hear something directly from the NFL, the Cleveland Browns or Gordon’s agent Drew Rosenhaus.  Thus far, all have declined to acknowledge the report.

Should the rumor be true, let’s look at how this will impact the Browns and related players.

Josh Gordon, WR CLE

This would be a huge blow to Gordon’s value, both in the short and long term.  Dating back to his college days at Baylor, Gordon has struggled with marijuana addiction.  He was suspended for two games in 2013, but still managed to compile 1,646 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.  Now facing what could be a full year suspension, Gordon’s value will plummet as his future is squarely in doubt.  An entire year of no formal football activity is not usually something that helps curb addiction.  He’s young enough to recover if so desired, but we question his dedication toward that end.  If this report is true, it’s a sad state of reality for such a talented player.

Greg Little, WR CLE

His value has been on the respirator for the past two years and just when it appeared as though his value was such that he could be dropped in all formats, he may have one last chance at fantasy redemption.  His production continues to fade and there’s little question the Browns will be seeking receiver talent in the draft or via trade, but until further notice, Greg Little’s value has ticked up.

Johnny Manziel/Brian Hoyer, QBs CLE

For the first time in years, there was actual fire below the smoke of the Cleveland Browns’ passing game. Without Gordon in the mix, the value of either quarterback drops dramatically. Gordon is too dynamic a talent to be replaced with existing talent or a rookie selection.  Cleveland fans, who had so much to look forward to in 2014, now likely can expect another year of mediocrity.  Following the selection of Manziel, it was fully expected he would be under center come week one, despite the coachspeak of an open competition.  Now, it likely doesn’t much matter … at least in fantasy circles.

Jordan Cameron, TE CLE

The one positive outcome may be that of Jordan Cameron, who should now see an increase in targets and receptions.  The productive tight end will be a solid selection in fantasy.

Ben Tate, RB CLE

This is not good for Tate’s value or his chance of avoiding injury.  Unable to stay of the injury report behind Arian Foster, Tate can now expect to see more defenders in the box and less daylight overall.  The loss of a player like Gordon will impact every phase of an offensive attack and the run game is no exception.

jeff haverlack