Welcome to New England and Tom Brady’s “Trust Tree,” Josh Gordon. In a sight of pure beauty, Brady heaved a 34 yard bomb downfield, and Gordon went up over two defenders to rip it down for the score (Brady’s Career 500th). The Patriots haven’t had this type of threat since Randy Moss, and Brady’s willingness to chuck up this prayer speaks volumes on his faith in his new weapon. By forging trust, this one play could spark a huge run for this pairing as Gordon’s role continues to grow and evolve in this suddenly-loaded attack.
Entering the Brady Circle of Trust is no small feat, especially in only two games. Many talents, whether Chad Ochocinco or Joey Galloway, never were welcomed, and even eventual stalwarts like Danny Amendola and Wes Welker took longer to forge their rapport. Thus, Brady’s early faith in Gordon is huge:
“That tells you the kind of confidence I have in a really short period of time,” Brady said. “He’s earned it and happy to see him make that play.”
More importantly, Gordon’s enthusiasm is equally as vibrant as his QBs:
“To catch any pass from Tom is amazing, let alone some history-making catch,” Gordon said. “Hopefully, he’s got a lot more left in him – I’m pretty sure he does – so I’m looking forward to that. The next history point to make for him, I hope to be a part of it.”
Hope isn’t something Gordon found much of in Cleveland, and perhaps this environment overhaul is exactly what he needs to get both his football career, and life, back on track. Thus far, his comfort level is sky high, which is even more important than the on-field play: “I’m loving it, I’m enjoying it. The guys have been great. It’s a real home environment. I feel as comfortable as ever.”
Gordon’s ability has never been the question — that’s the mental side. With his comfort level and motivation high, his physical gifts should only flourish further:
“I have no doubt I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity… I’m more than blessed, I’m extremely grateful to be put in this scenario. I think the only thing right for me to do is to take full advantage of it
Yes, his immediate floor remains low: Gordon played only 20-of-71 snaps (28%) and netted just four targets. Often, he’ll find himself behind James White, Julian Edelman, and Rob Gronkowski for weekly looks, especially while still learning the playbook (didn’t play in any no-huddle situations).
But the long-term ceiling is limitless. This is especially true with Gordon’s early, rapid progress in his new home, when there was always a chance he wouldn’t log a snap here. His rise to 69 overall ranking on my Season Long Big Board captures this Low-Floor, Enormous Ceiling balance.
