National Football League

Mike Pettine talks about the return of Josh Gordon

Published Sep. 22, 2014 7:46 p.m. ET

foxsports

BEREA, Ohio -- Josh Gordon is back with the Browns.

He might not be able to play right now, but being able to join the Browns in Berea is a big plus according to Mike Pettine.

"As an organization, to have a guy who is out for the year, all of a sudden have a chance to get him back at the end is a big plus for usâa player of his ability," Pettine said in his first comments regarding Gordon's return.

"At the same time, it's important were not just talking about Josh Gordon, the player, but the person," he said. "We're well aware of the human element here. It's just not we have a good player back for six games. We talk about building long-term sustained success here and making sure we're getting him everything he needs is just as big a part of it as what he can do on the field for us."

Gordon is suspended for 10 games under the new NFL substance abuse policy, which means he could return for the final six games starting Nov. 23 against the Falcons.

Pettine said under the new rules, Gordon can work out, lift weights and be at meetings with the team. He cannot practice or be at practice or games.

Pettine said Gordon was back in Berea last Friday, but didn't talk with him until Saturday.

"I talked to him briefly," Pettine said. "It wasn't really a formal meeting. He's had more of those with Ray (Farmer).

"It's just tough for me, but I'll be very much in the loop as far as our plans with Josh," he said. "That really falls more on Ray as being the head coach I'm more tasked with the guys that are available to play, but we'll get a plan in place for him and be ready to move forward."