Cleveland Browns Film Room: A look at Johnny Manziel
June 4, 2014
Hoax lawsuit against Manziel thrown out of Florida court
June 4, 2014
Following practice on Tuesday, Browns coach Mike Pettine answered a few questions regarding Josh Gordon’s situation that were general enough to include all players, but certainly spoke volumes about his thoughts on Josh Gordon.
Pettine was asked if he felt the team had a good support system in place for players with off the field issues:
“I think that we do. That’s one of the things that I’ve been impressed with in being here so far. I think the hiring of (Browns director of player engagement) Jamil Northcutt was very much under the radar and very important. I think he brings an outstanding background in his ability to relate to the players, and be able to really reach all of them. I just think not only him, but (Browns head athletic trainer) Joe Sheehan and the training room…I think the guys around, the support staff have a really good pulse of this team. I think it’s something that I have a real good feeling about. People have asked about that and the sense in the locker room, and for the most part it’s been very positive.”
He was then asked if he felt the league does enough to support the same players:
“I do. I think there’s a lot of help available. I think that the mandated programs for rookies are very important. I’ve sat in some of those meetings. It’s very impressive, but there has to be a willingness on the other side. Sometimes guys get the message that it’s too late. In all my time in the league, there’s always going to be a handful of guys that just don’t get it. I think the league’s done more than enough to get the word out. I think the better clubs are the ones that are very proactive instead of reactive, and I think that’s the situation that we have here.”
Many are suggesting that the players and coaching staff have to be getting tired of answering questions about Gordon and his situation. I’m sure that’s true, but until the league hands down some sort of decision it just won’t go away.
[Related: Browns OTA injury update]
1 Comment
I would not be surprised if Gordon negotiates down to 2-4 games. First, NFL threshold is 10x lower than Olympic testing for pot. Second, tagging Gordon’s pre-NFL issues to NFL substance abuse status is questionable at best. Given the changing attitude concerning pot, Gordon’s rising-star status, how well-spoken he is, and generally how likeable he is, I’m not sure NFL wants TX no-holds barred litigation on this one. Given the $20-40MM at stake for Gordon, I don’t think his camp has much choice other than to take this thing to the mat in litigation. I think Gordon’s lawyers have substantial leverage, both PR-wise and legally, and I don’t think it wise for the NFL to make their stand on this case. Negotiate 2-4 games, change the pot policy, and move on.