NEW ORLEANS — The Browns have informed wide receiver Josh Gordon they will release him Monday.

Cleveland parted ways with Gordon, 27, Saturday afternoon after six seasons with the team.

The news comes as the Browns prepare for Sunday's game against the Saints in New Orleans. Gordon was ruled out with a hamstring injury and did not travel with the team.

"This afternoon we informed Josh Gordon and his representatives that we are going to release him on Monday," Browns general manager John Dorsey said. "For the past six years, the Browns have fully supported and invested in Josh, both personally and professionally and wanted the best for him, but unfortunately we've reached a point where we feel it's best to part ways and move forward. We wish Josh well."

Gordon missed most of training camp on a leave of absence to focus on his ongoing recovery with addiction. He reunited with the club Aug. 18.

Gordon, who returned in December from a three-year suspension for multiple violations of the NFL's substance abuse policy, was expected to play a key role on a new-look Browns offense this fall.

The league's leading receiver in 2013, Gordon caught one pass for a 17-yard touchdown in last week's tie against the Pittsburgh Steelers.