Bill Belichick on Josh Gordon: ‘I wish him the very best’

Bill Belichick is wishing Josh Gordon nothing but ‘the very best.’

On Thursday, the New England Patriots wide receiver announced he was stepping away from the game to focus on his mental health. According to Tom Pelissero, Gordon, who’s missed tons of action with the Cleveland Browns due to suspensions over substance abuse, was facing an indefinite suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick spoke on the situation, telling reporters he wished Gordon the best.

“I spoke with Josh yesterday morning, as I have several times since he’s been here,” Belichick said. “Obviously it’s an unfortunate situation. Personally, I wish him the very best, as we all do on this team. 

That’s about as candid as Belichick gets. He’s obviously disappointed in the situation, as Gordon seems to turn a corner, becoming a legitimate wideout target for the Pats and Tom Brady after arriving from Cleveland. However, Belichick wants him to succeed. Gordon can’t do that without stepping away from the game and focusing on getting the help he needs.

It’s a tough situation for everyone involved. Belichick will need to gameplan without Gordon going forward. I’m sure he’d prefer having the talented WR on the field, but he understands Gordon’s issues are more significant than football.