Josh Gordon returned to practice on Wednesday, and expectations for his first game this weekend are all over the place. The Browns take on the Atlanta Falcons, who have one of the worst defenses in the NFL. Many are expecting big things from Gordon right away, but Cleveland coach Mike Pettine wants to temper expectations.
According to USA Today, Pettine told reporters, "We're going to have him on a pitch count. There needs to be a progressions. The trap to fall into is, 'Hey, he's back and let's just go ahead and throw him out there for a bunch of plays.'" Pettine has already spoken of his desire to ease Gordon back into the swing of things throughout the week in practice.
Atlanta head coach does not think there will be any limitations on Gordon this weekend, telling the media, "I would expect Josh to play a significant role in the game. He's a playmaker, and he creates matchup issues for any team they're going to be going against. I would imagine that we'll see a lot of him. That's what we're anticipating."
Josh Gordon Excited To Be Back
For his part, Gordon has expressed a desire to do whatever it takes to help Cleveland continue their drive toward the playoffs. He did, however, say that he thinks he can have a big game this weekend if the coaches want to use him heavily. "I definitely think I can," said Gordon. "In regards to the coaching and how they want to implement me into the game plan, that's up to them. I want them to do what they see fit and just use me as an asset whatever it easiest for them to do."
Regardless of his usage this weekend, Gordon should be a serious threat whenever he sees the field. Cleveland is among the league leaders in rushes per game, so Gordon figures to be dangerous whenever the Browns use play-action.
See Cleveland quarterback Brian Hoyer and others react to news of Gordon's return.
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