Martavis Bryant and Josh Gordon are suspended indefinitely by the NFL, but don’t discount a return to the league for either of them. In fact, one reporter says the two could even be cleared to return by training camp, although that won’t be easy.
NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero says that if both players follow their treatment plans, the NFLPA could begin work in May on the reinstatement process for both players.
Gordon and Bryant are suspended, not banished (which would be one year minimum). So, it’s possible they could be back by training camp. Of course, this can’t be said enough: everything depends on getting better and following their treatment plans. That’s where the focus is now.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 7, 2019
Bryant played in eight games for the Oakland Raiders last season but was suspended for a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy for the third time.
Gordon played in 12 games, mostly with the Patriots following his trade from Cleveland. He has missed two full seasons and parts of four others due to numerous suspensions.
As great as this news is for optimists, the reality is it’s incredibly difficult for any team to count on either player. They’re constantly in trouble with the league and completely unreliable. I wouldn’t bother wasting a roster spot or any mental energy “hoping” either one of these repeat violators finally cleans things up.
