The Cleveland Browns have been through hell and back with Josh Gordon. They aren't about to part ways with the oft-suspended wideout now that he's finally ready to play.
NFL Media's Mike Garafolo reported Friday on NFL Network's Good Morning Football that the Browns had conversations with teams about Gordon and were willing to part ways with him in exchange for "a second-round pick and then some." However, the Browns are no longer trying to shop the wide receiver, who will serve a four-game suspension to open the year before returning against the Patriots in Week 5.
ESPN first reported the potential trade discussions.
For his part, Gordon said he has no ambitions to leave Cleveland and is looking forward to the upcoming season.
"Cleveland is my team. That's where I want to be," Gordon told ESPN.com. "(Browns owner Jimmy) Haslam, the organization, coach (Hue) Jackson, I think the world of those guys, this city, this organization. They're showing me the love and respect back to me by allowing me to stay here up to this point.
"I expect to move forward with that. I'm excited about it. This is where I want to be and I'm happy to be with Cleveland."
Gordon, who hasn't played in a game since December 2014, is practicing with the Browns and appears likely to make his preseason debut on Friday against the Buccaneers.
The Browns have supported Gordon through multiple suspensions and a tangled web of off-the-field distractions. If Jackson can help the 25-year-old keep his focus, the Browns have a chance to feature the pass-catcher in juicy three-wideout sets alongside Terrelle Pryor and rookie Corey Coleman.
Longtime beat writer Tony Grossi of ESPN doesn't expect the Browns to move Gordon any time soon:
Bottom line: Cleveland can't afford to part ways with anyone who can help the team win.
