Can Josh Gordon go play in CFL? The way things stand, not likely

Now that Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon has been suspended for the duration of the 2014 NFL season, word has spread around NFL campfires that he wants to go play up in Canada.

It's supposedly nice up there this time of year. But Gordon, if he goes, might be going only as a spectator. (May we suggest lovely Montreal, terrific Toronto, or the criminally underrated Prince Edward Island? Although, maybe British Columbia is more Gordon's speed.)

[ Smack talk season is back at Yahoo Sports: Sign up and play free Fantasy Football!]

There have been various reports that the Calgary Stampeeders own Gordon's rights. The negotiation list that the CFL uses operates on a first-come, first-serve list, and as of Wednesday night, Shutdown Corner has learned Gordon's name had not appeared on the CFL negotiation list, although it's believed that multiple CFL teams have requested to add Gordon's name to said list.

But it appears, based on an ESPN report and a source telling Shutdown Corner, that Gordon isn't likely to play up there this season. CFL rules prohibit a suspended NFL player currently under contract from going up north to play.

In the case of former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver LaVon Brazill, who was suspended for 2014, he was released by the Colts after being suspended. Brazill now plays for the Toronto Argonauts.

Another potential roadblock: Canada makes getting work permits, which are required to play in the CFL, very difficult for people who have been involved in DWIs in other countries, as Gordon was arrested for in July.

It's always possible that the Browns could release Gordon and set him free to pursue a career in Canada. But based on the way they have stood behind him to this point (along with playing him with the first team in the preseason) makes you think that's not likely unless Gordon requests it.

A month ago, we were worried about the safety and health of Gordon, whose future in football was roundly questioned. Now we're tracking his potential football movements to Canada. How about that.

- - - - - - -

Eric Edholm is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at edholm@yahoo-inc.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Eric_Edholm