RENTON -- The National Football League conditionally reinstated Seahawks wide receiver Josh Gordon from an indefinite suspension for violations of the performance-enhancing drugs and substance-abuse policies.
Gordon, 29, was suspended by the NFL last December after appearing in five games for Seattle. He was claimed off waivers by the Seahawks after he was released by the New England Patriots. Gordon quickly developed a rapport with Russell Wilson and caught seven passes for 139 yards in his five games played before the suspension was handed down on Dec. 16.
Gordon's reinstatement basically turned his indefinite suspension into a one-year ban.
"Josh's experience with us was really positive," head coach Pete Carroll said after the team re-signed Gordon in September. "He worked really hard, studied hard, came through when he had his chances in games, made some incredible plays and left us with a really good impression. We've told you all along that we really liked the experience we had and we were hoping all along if there was a chance to get back we would want to get them back. We'll just have to wait and see when but we're happy to have the opportunity bring him to our club."
Gordon can enter the COVID-19 testing protocol with the team beginning Friday and can re-join the team on Dec. 9 after he clears the five-day intake procedure if he tests negative. He can begin attending meetings and doing strength and conditioning work but will not be eligible to practice or attend games until after Seattle's Week 15 game against the Washington Football Team.
Gordon will be eligible to practice and play for the final two weeks of the regular season and playoffs.
"Well, number one, I'm thrilled he's back," offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer said on Thursday after practice. "I can't wait to see him. I can't wait to catch up once he gets through all the protocols and everything. He was an unbelievable pro. I mean, just the way he worked. He's got some stuff that he's got to do to catch up and get up to speed with the things we're doing. I don't think that will be any problem. As confident of a catcher as there is in the NFL. His hands and his ability to make plays in traffic separates him. ... But more importantly, I'm just excited to see him. We'll get him up to speed. But he was awesome to have around. I can't wait to have him back and he gives Russ another fun toy to play with."
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Photo Credit: SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 11: Wide receiver Josh Gordon #10 of the Seattle Seahawks is tackled by the defense of the San Francisco 49ers in the game at Levi's Stadium on November 11, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)