Patriots’ Gordon suspended again

New England receiver Josh Gordon was suspended indefinitely Thursday by the NFL for violating an agreement that allowed him to play after multiple drug suspensions, casting doubt on whether the talented but troubled playmaker would ever play in the league again.

League officials said Thursday that Gordon was returned to the reserve/commissioner suspended list indefinitely for breaking the terms of his reinstatement under the NFL substance abuse policy. The news came several hours after Gordon said he was stepping away from football to focus on his mental health.

Gordon said on Twitter his decision was spurred by his own feelings that he could have a better grasp on things mentally. He thanked the Patriots for their support and vowed to work his way back.

“We support Josh Gordon in his continued efforts to focus on his health. His attempt to do so is a private and personal matter, which we intend to respect,” Patriots team officials said.

Gordon has been suspended several times by the NFL for violations of its drug policies since being drafted by the Browns in 2012, and missed the entire 2015 and 2016 seasons.

Giants: Star receiver Odell Beckham Jr. isn’t looking to shut down his season because New York is eliminated from playoff contention. He doesn’t want to risk further injury to a quad that caused him to sit out the last two games, either. The NFL’s highest-paid receiver did not practice on either Wednesday or Thursday, which seems to indicate he will not play Sunday when the Giants (5-9) face the Colts (8-6) in Indianapolis. The 26-year-old said his leg is feeling better and he believes his status is day to day.

Panthers: Placed outside linebacker Shaq Thompson on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. The team signed undrafted rookie quarterback Kyle Allen from the practice squad. Allen will serve as Carolina’s backup to Taylor Heinicke on Sunday when the Panthers host the Falcons in what is essentially a meaningless game. Cam Newton will be inactive with a shoulder injury.