New England Patriots: Josh Gordon trending up with Belichick’s praise

New England Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon put in a gutsy performance against the New York Jets Sunday, earning the praise of Bill Belichick.

The New England Patriots weren’t counting on having Josh Gordon as an option entering the 2019 NFL season, but following reinstatement by the league after another indefinite suspension, the team is heaping the rewards of having him on the field.

While it is still hard to rely on Gordon being available for the entire season, a few things are sticking out about the 28-year-old wide receiver that could mean that this time around will be different.

For one, there is his demeanor in addressing the media. He seems more focused, confident in himself and appears to be embracing the team atmosphere that is the New England Patriots.

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On the field, he is making plays, doing whatever the team needs him to do and has shown extreme toughness, as demonstrated in Sunday’s 30-14 victory over the New York Jets.

As one of the stars of the game, Gordon hauled in 6 receptions for 83 yards. Two of those catches made the highlight reel and came after the 6-foot-3 wide receiver had to have his finger put back in place.

It also came during a stretch where the team needed him, after Julian Edelman exited the game with a rib injury.

Labeling himself as a “fighter,” it is that toughness in Josh Gordon that is opening eyes and earning praise from Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.

Appearing on Orway, Merloni & Fauria Monday, Belichick took some time to show his wide receiver a little praise.

"“I think Josh has had a consistent year for us,” Belichick said, as transcribed by WEEI. “Started late, mid-August, but he’s been pretty consistent on a daily basis and in the games that he’s played in from the Giants preseason game through three regular-season games. Just going out there every day working on his timing, working on his individual fundamentals, in-game conditioning and so forth.“I thought that showed up the last couple of weeks. It was hot in Miami and was challenging yesterday with the heat and there were a number of snaps and so forth. He’s doing a good job.”"

It should be noted that Gordon has also garnered praise from his teammates, including Tom Brady, who are pulling for him this season.

Although his numbers aren’t flashy with 11 receptions for 175 yards and a touchdown in three games played, what is standing out about Josh Gordon on the field is his presence. Without a big target like Rob Gronkowski, Gordon is filling in with his ability to go up and get the ball over multiple defenders.

Next. New England Patriots: 3 bold predictions for Josh Gordon in 2019. dark

It is those spectacular types of plays that will make the New England Patriots offense fun to watch even without the services of one Antonio Brown.

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