Context:

 In December of 2019, Josh Gordon was suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL policies on performance-enhancing substances and substances of abuse. (6th NFL suspension since 2013) It is currently Week 12 of the next season, and he has still not been reinstated after applying for reinstatement on June 18. 

Reasoning: 

First off, I believe that the NFL was right in punishing Josh Gordon for his violation of the NFL policies on performance-enhancing substances and substances of abuse. However, I believe it is way past time to reinstate him. He is currently signed with the Seahawks (Signed in September of 2020) and would be surrounded by great teammates and immersed in an amazing culture with the Seahawks. When he was suspended, Coach Carroll and many players showed their support in Josh Gordon. Coming back from reinstatement, he would have plenty of people who will help him stay on the right side of the NFL policies on performance-enhancing substances and substances of abuse. 

Secondly, the NFL has already "forgiven" players who have had shadier histories. Tyreek Hill, Antonio Brown, and others have all had several rumors, allegations, and more about what they do in their personal lives, often being worse than using marijuana or taking drugs. These supposed actions affect other people in their personal lives as well. Of course, I'm not the judge of who is guilty or not guilty. However, Josh Gordon is a person who wants to do better and has not done anything (that the general public knows of) that hurts other people. The NFL, or Roger Goodell specifically, should reinstate Josh Gordon.

Finally, instead of continuing to suspend Josh Gordon, the NFL should instead help players like Gordon. Create programs that assist players going through hard times. Just because NFL players make more money than the general public does not mean they are not people. They all go through personal issues in their lives. Gordon himself has suffered through several personal issues, with anxiety and the loss of his brother on the forefront. He's a human being like the rest of us and went through tough times. The NFL should instead work to help these players instead of punishing them. 

I have no idea if Goodell plans on reinstating Gordon next week or next season. Whether or not this petition helps reinstate Josh Gordon, I hope people learn from Gordon. He's a person who has gone through a lot, has struggled with drug problems, and still looks to be a better person. #FreeGordon.

Francisco Yang

@houseofseahawks on Instagram 

Cover Photo by The Seattle Times