Browns sign free agent WR Miles Austin, insurance in case Josh Gordon suspended
5/15/2014CLEVELAND — The Browns have agreed to contract terms with free agent wide receiver Miles Austin, insurance in case Pro Bowler Josh Gordon is suspended.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Austin was released by the Dallas Cowboys in March in a salary-cap move. The 29-year-old played in just 11 games last season because of injuries.
Austin had his best season in 2009, when he had 81 receptions for 1,320 yards and 11 touchdowns.
The Browns are making plans in the event they lose Gordon for an extended period. Last week, ESPN reported the 22-year-old is facing a one-year suspension for failing another drug test. Gordon has failed two previous tests and was suspended for the first two games last season for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
Despite playing just 14 games, Gordon led the league with 1,646 yards receiving.