The NFL has upheld its year-long suspension of Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon for violating the league's substance-abuse policy, a source confirmed to ESPN.com on Wednesday.

Shortly after the NFL released its decision, Gordon issued a statement through the NFL Players' Association.

"I'd like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the Cleveland Browns organization and our fans," Gordon said. "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."