Problematic wideout may be worth Arizona Cardinals trouble

The ultra-talented but troublesome Josh Gordon could have a positive effect on the scoring attack of the Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals would have to admit that it’s an intriguing option. Any time that an impressive talent becomes available, an organization owes it to themselves to at the least kick the tires on that player. Even if the object of their desire happens to be one of the most problematic competitors in the NFL.

Six years after drafting Josh Gordon, the Cleveland Browns are finally sending their problem child packing. The wide receiver’s professional existence has been a tumultuous one. Substance abuse and other indiscretions have had an adverse effect on Gordon’s career, so much so that even the lowly Browns have given up on him.

Gordon’s list of off-the-field improprieties is a long one. Even so, there’s no denying how talented the 27-year old is. In fact, Gordon’s on-field prowess is most likely the reason that Cleveland held on to him for as long as they did.

Gordon was voted to the Pro Bowl back in 2013. The 6’3, 225 pounder hauled in 87 receptions for 1,646 yards that year, in just 14 appearances. Gordon found the end zone nine times, and averaged an impressive 18.9 yards per catch.

Gordon made it back to the playing field last year, after two full seasons away from the game. The former second-round pick played in five contests, catching just 18 balls for 335 yards and a score. Nevertheless, Gordon averaged 18.6 yards per reception, proving that he could still get downfield with the best of them.

During the Browns season-opening tie with the Pittsburgh Steelers last Sunday, Gordon was held to only one catch. It was a big one, though. The physical specimen snatched a game-tying 17-yard touchdown, evening up the divisional matchup with just 1:58 to go in the fourth quarter.

Could the Cardinals use a guy like Gordon in their offense? The answer to that question is a resounding yes. Arizona wide receivers not named Larry Fitzgerald combined for a measly one reception for four yards last week during the team’s lopsided defeat to the Washington Redskins.

Whether the Cardinals management team would take a chance on Gordon is unknown at this point. Perhaps a change of scenery would have a positive effect on the pass-catcher. Wherever he ends up, it stands to reason that the next opportunity Gordon gets to change his life around will be his last.