Report: Gordon 'getting closer to returning' to Browns

Wide receiver Josh Gordon is "getting closer to returning" to the Cleveland Browns, a source told Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot.

Gordon stepped away from the Browns days before training camp opened, announcing he was taking a leave of absence to work on maintaining his overall health. The 26-year-old has battled issues with substance abuse in the past, limiting him to just 10 games over the past four years.

Even if he doesn't report to Cleveland in time to accrue the necessary amount of service, the Browns reportedly intend to grant him restricted free agency in March 2019, according to Cabot. By rule, Cleveland could deny him free agency if he's not with the club 30 days before the start of the regular season.

Related: Browns GM Dorsey reiterates Josh Gordon will rejoin team

One of the most electric receivers in the game when he's on the field, Gordon posted 335 yards and a touchdown in five contests last season. He led the league with 1,646 yards, to go with nine touchdowns, across 14 outings in 2013.