http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11418388/josh-gordon-cleveland-browns-suspended-one-year

Josh Gordon will miss the entire 2014 season following the NFL's announcement Wednesday that it has upheld the Cleveland Browns star's yearlong suspension for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.

Gordon's suspension is effective immediately, and he will have to apply for reinstatement following the season. The Pro Bowl wide receiver is not allowed to practice with the Browns, attend meetings or other team functions.

Gordon, who led the NFL in receiving yards last season despite serving a two-game suspension for a drug violation, issued an apology in a statement released Wednesday by the NFL Players Association.

"I'd like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the Cleveland Browns organization and our fans," Gordon said in the statement. "I am very disappointed that the NFL and its hearing office didn't exercise better discretion and judgment in my case. I would like to sincerely thank the people who have been incredibly supportive of me during this challenging time, including my family, my agent, my union, my legal team, and the Cleveland Browns staff."

The 23-year-old Gordon met with league arbitrator Harold Henderson to appeal the suspension on Aug. 4. Gordon's attorneys argued that their client's two urine samples were different, and as a result were caused by secondhand smoke, sources told ESPN last month.