The Cleveland Browns have been in a tough position as their best offensive weapon, Josh Gordon, has a history with run-ins with the law. Gordon was recently arrested for a DWI last month, which could add to his suspension that is already in progress for the 2014 season. The star wide receiver has been in the headlines due to his run-ins with the law more than talking about his excellent play on the field. Gordon has failed multiple drug tests, and this latest run-in displays that Gordon is need of serious help. As of now a lot of people are talking down on Gordon in a negative way as they should, but there are two people Gordon can turn to for help in Hall-of-Fame wide receivers Cris Carter and Michael Irvin.
Like Gordon, Carter started off his career on a high note, flashing superstar ability at the wide receiver position that also carried a lot of excess baggage that stemmed from a series of off-the-field problems. At the time Carter was a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, but despite his potential he was released by then head coach Buddy Ryan. Carter had issues off the field, and it seemed as it if was more important to save Cris Carter the person rather than Cris Carter the football player. In Irvin’s case he was never in jeopardy in losing a roster spot, but he has shown that he was able to have a successful NFL career and television career after having several run-ins with the law. I am not saying that Gordon can become a Hall-of-Fame receiver like Irvin or Carter but his play on the field shows how great he can be if he matures on and off the field. Talks have surfaced that Gordon should enter drug rehab, or some program that can help with his issues, but I think that having Carter or Irvin as mentors could be pretty effective. With both hall of fame wide receivers going through similar issues at the same stage of their careers it can give Gordon a visual of what he can become if he is on the right path.
Gordon is very young (23 years old) so he may not be willing to open up to someone he can’t relate to. Having star-laden former NFL players as a mentor he can relate to them due to their similarities and athletic background. After Carter and Irvin had their off-the-field issues they turned themselves into model citizens and went on to be Hall-of-Fame wide receivers. The NFL is one big fraternity, and this is the perfect opportunity show that by helping Gordon.
Carter and Irvin has a history of mentoring younger players, and it seems to be an ideal fit. There isn’t always time to save someone from themselves, but there is time to lend a helping hand to Gordon. It’s time for Gordon to shape up, before it becomes too late. Gordon is currently appealing his year long suspension, but the bigger picture may be saving Josh Gordon the person rather than Josh Gordon the football player. 
