---
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2015
PAGE 7
+
THE DAILY DEBATE
Would you want your team to sign Josh Gordon?
Joey Anguiano
@joey Anguiano
"YES"
Should teams sign players with "character issues?" Should teams take risks on players who have received multiple suspensions from violating the NFL's substance abuse policy? Should teams put the on-field product as
He received a two game suspension for violating the NFI's substance abuse policy.
"GORDON IS SELF-AWARE. HE HAS ADMITTED TO HIS MISTAKES."
a priority over the off-field nonsense? These are questions that should be evaluated on a case-to-case basis, but in the case of Josh Gordon, the answer is yes.
substance abuse policy. Gordon responded to his shortened 2013 season by playing spectacularly. His 2013 campaign ended with him leading the NFL in receiving yards, both total and per game. Gordon was also second in yards per catch, and had the fourth most yards from scrimmage in the 2013
Gordon has had his fair share of troubles with the league offices and head coaches alike. While at Baylor in 2011, Gordon was suspended indefinitely for his second failed drug test. Following a rookie season, where Gordon finished third in rookie receiving yards and fourth in rookie receptions, the wide receiver was suspended for the first time as a professional.
season. That season was also the first time an NFL receiver played back-to-back 200-yard games, and it was Josh Gordon. He was selected to the Pro Bowl, despite playing just 14 games.
Gordon followed up his spectacular efforts with his second substance abuse suspension in as many years. This time, it looked as though Gordon would spend the entire season on the sidelines, until the NFL unveiled its new drug policy, under which Gordon was only suspended 10 games versus 16. He only played five games in the 2014 season, so Gordon's time on
the field is best described as ineffective. He was suspended for the final game of the 2014 season for violating Cleveland Browns team rules.
Gordon has been called an alcoholic, a drug addict and a problem for teams. He responded with an open letter, addressing those in the media who are concerned for his well being.
"I am not a drug addict; I am not an alcoholic; I am not someone who deserves to be dissected and analyzed like some tragic example of everything that can possibly go wrong for a professional athlete." Gordon writes.
He continues on stating that if he does have a "problem" it's that he is only 23 years old. Which is exactly why I would want to sign him for my team. Gordon is self-aware. He has admitted to his mistakes. He is a unique talent who has proven he can perform at the highest of levels. And he is only 23 years old. In my opinion, Gordon has at least five more high-performing seasons in the NFL. You can call him a distraction, but if given the chance to play in 2015, he will be called a Pro Bowler at the end of the season.
—Edited by Vicky Diaz-Camacho
Sean Collins
@Seanzie 3
"NO"
There's no denying Cleveland Browns wide receiver, losh
Wide receiver, Josh Gordon, has talent, but right now he is more of a liability than star player. After failing yet another drug test, Gordon will be suspended for the entirety of the 2015-16 season. This will leave the Browns without their best receiver once again.
There comes a time where consistency is valued more than talent such as Gordon's. If he can't handle league rules and violates them as often as he has, then he not only gives the franchise a bad reputation, but is also a hindrance to the team's success.
in the 2014-15 season Gordon was suspended for the first 10 games after failing a drug test, and again for the final game of the season for violating team policy. The struggling Browns could have used Gordon during those games. The fact he didn't play for something he could have controlled, drug use, is only hurting the team.
The media has heavily criticized Gordon, and Gordon
replied with an open letter. According to USA Today, Gordon said, "I am not a drug addict; I am not an alcoholic; I am not someone who deserves to be dissected and analyzed like some tragic example of everything that can possibly go wrong for a professional athlete."
While Gordon has a point, he should act responsibly because he is a highly-paid professional
better me—one who kids coming up to me for selfies and autographs can be proud of. I want that future for myself."
That last statement shows he wants to be in a better place and be a better role model.
and be a better foe today In the 2013-14 season, Gordon caught 87 receptions for 1,646 yards and nine touchdowns, showing that he is capable of playing at a high level. In the five games he played
athlete that many people look up to. He has a year to improve before he returns to football, which will almost certainly be crucial for his growth. Gordon is by no means a bad person. He seems to have issues that need to be confronted. When he is at the top of his game mentally and physically, he is one of the best receivers in the National Football League and has a very bright future.
"GORDON IS BY NO MEANS A BAD PERSON. HE SEEMS TO HAVE ISSUES THAT NEED TO BE CONFRONTED."
Gordon ended his letter with "I've come a long way from those mean Fondren streets, but it's clear that I can be a
Gordon is a stud on the field and will hopefully return to the field soon, but as of right now, I wouldn't want my team to sign him. Will my mind change a year from now? Probably.
this past season, Gordon didn't score a single touchdown.
Edited by Vicky Diaz-Camacho
In this Nov. 30, 2014 file photo, Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon carries the ball after a reception against the Buffalo Bills during the first half the game in Orchard Park, N.Y. The Browns say they are disappointed about a report that troubled wide receiver Gordon has failed another drug test and could be facing a one-year NFL ban. Gordon was suspended for 10 games last season for another violation of the league's drug policy. He appeared in just five games and was suspended by the Browns for violating team rules before the season finale.
785-864-4358
CLASSIFIEDS@KANSAN.COM
Entry level laborer position. Must have valid drivers license and clean driving record. Apply in person at 5030 Bob Billings Parkway Suite A.
NOW HIRING
KANSAN.COM
BUCKINGHAM PALACE
Are you detail oriented,
organized, and a team player?
Full or Part time
Mon - Fri. 8am - 5pm,
work 1 day a week or all 5.
Vehicle & supplies provided.
HOUSECLEANING
HOUSE CLEANERS WANTED
Vehicle & supplies provided.
939 Iowa Street - (785) 842-6264.
JOBS
PIT OFFICE ASSIST $16,950-1
General office work plus answering phones, giving out rental info, scheduling appointments, showing apts, assisting customers & balancing bank statements. Looking for an organized, friendly & communicative person. Part time now, full or part time in summer. Schedule changes each semester to adjust to student schedules. M-F hrs, no evenings or weekends. Apply at 600 Lawrence Ave, Suite 2D. 785-841-5797.
P/T delivering the Lawrence Journal World 7 days a week. Must have reliable vehicle, valid driver's license & proof of insurance. Call or text Joan @ 816-805-6780.
HOUSING
Newly Renovated Houses!
3, 5 or 10 Bedrooms
Close to Campus, Stadium, Down-
town. Available Aug. 2015
email: ree@brintonreal.com
Call 811-686-8868
Avail. Aug. 4BR & 3BR next to KU stadium. All appliances, spacious, good parking. Call 785-765-7518.
1, 2, 3&4BR Apts & Townhomes
available Summer & Fall
785-843-0011 or holidaymgmt.com
CAN'T GET ENOUGH CONTENT? at kansan.com and follow us on social media for more
@kansanoncampus @kansansports @kansannews
DON'T GET LEFT BEHIND!
+