In an expected move, the New England Patriots have released wide receiver Josh Gordon this week. Gordon is also expected to be claimed with a team looking for receiver this week.
Gordon is considered one of the most talented wide receivers today, yet he has famously struggled with substance abuse that has led to multiple suspensions from the league. But the Patriots have a reputation for taking talented but troubled athletes into their team and usually doing something extraordinary with them.
Gordon had a relapse last season but was able to play 11 games. But a nagging injury has kept him from being the type of player the Pats envisioned once clean and sober. He was placed on the injured reserve list which many already knew was a step right before release.
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When healthy, he is a Pro-Bowler and one-of-a-kind talent. Even better, Gordon stressed that his knee feels “good enough to play” and whoever picks him up will only have to pay for the remainder of the season, about $1 million. He has caught 20 passes for 287 yards prior to his injury.
Teams that are in desperate need for wide receiver include the following:
- The Jets seem to be on everyone’s list as first or second team that should take him. They have had their issues and how much of that is due to the lack of a solid wide receiver could be tested with the addition of Gordon.
- Miami Dolphins are first in the waiver order, yet I am not sure if taking a troubled star is a priority for them right now. But if they are to keep Ryan Fitzpatrick at the helm right now, having someone deep to throw to deep could make all the difference, since ‘Fitzmagic’ is known for having a cannon for an arm.
- As a Chicago Bears fan, I can tell you we’ve had a surprisingly bad season. Much is credited to quarterback Mitch Trubisky and/or Head Coach Matt Nagy. But what if we had deeper threats? Could it be that teams are used to the short passes and running plays?
We will have to wait and see who claims him. I am betting on Miami.
