Josh Gordon deflects question about possible discipline: 'I couldn't even give you an answer'

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — It was a confusing set of circumstances that surrounded Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon in the hours leading up to the game against the Bills.

Early Monday, there was a report from NFL Media that indicated he was going to have to sit out the start of the game against the Bills because of tardiness. But Gordon not only started, he played most of the snaps in the 25-6 win over Buffalo, finishing with four catches for 42 yards.

After the game, Gordon said the question about his status was better left to Bill Belichick.

“You know what? That’s going to be a question to ask coach about,” Gordon said. “As it relates to the game, I was available. That was a plus.

“I’ve got to check on everything,” Gordon said when asked about the rumors. “I’m not too sure about what’s out there myself. I couldn’t even give you an answer.”

Belichick said he had “no idea” about the report.

“You have to talk to whoever wrote that,” Belichick said.

BSJ analysis: So where does that leave us?



Honestly, there's a lot to unpack here when you consider the situation. My first thought is that while Gordon's past track record is well known, the fact that he wasn't jettisoned immediately if there was tardiness could provide some level of insight into just how valuable he's now become when you consider his spot in the offense. He's gone from being a complementary part of the passing game to a starter fairly quickly -- he has 17 catches for 266 yards and a touchdown in six games -- and this decision could be an outward indication of just how important he's become.

It's also hard not to look at Gordon's situation and wonder about the reports the Patriots are pursuing wide receivers before Tuesday's trade deadline. New England has been connected with multiple names at this point, including Denver's Demaryius Thomas. Can you draw a line between trade possibilities and any potential disciplinary action for Gordon? Sure, especially when you think about Gordon's history.

Ultimately, what we're left with is the steady stream of players and coaches, who continue to speak highly of Gordon and his commitment to not only learning the offense but also getting acclimated to the New England system. Let's face it -- as long as he continues to work in earnest to win the support of the quarterback, especially when it comes to 50-50 balls -- he'll continue to have a spot on the roster.

“For him to play the role that he’s played is a credit to him, what he’s been doing and what his routine here has been,’’ Tom Brady said Saturday. “I know he’s got a lot of great support, and everyone wants to see him do as well as he possibly can.’’