There have been some questions about Josh Gordon lately, given that he was apparently eligible to apply for reinstatement from his NFL suspension in late September. Considering the Browns lost Corey Coleman to a broken hand and they're sending out some lesser lights at receiver, these days, reason to think Gordon would quickly move to the top of the depth chart if he returns.
But before breaking the waiver budget adding Gordon, consider that he apparently hasn't even applied for reinstatement yet. Gordon would need to apply, and then the sand through the hourglass that are the NFL's appeal review system would need to start in motion. Roger Goodell has other things on his plate these days, so no guarantee he'd move quickly on the appeal.
You have to think the Browns would welcome him back. They're starting Ricardo Louis, Rashard Higgins and Kenny Britt as their main three wide receivers. Louis caught 5 balls for 64 yards last week, but was at just 10 yards despite playing most of the snaps the previous week. Higgins had a big Week 2, but also went for 10 yards in Week 3 -- then didn't catch any of the 4 balls thrown his way last week.
Britt has caught 8 of 23 passes and repeatedly drawn criticism for his effort. Hue Jackson indicated at a press conference that Britt would have been benched if the Browns had a better option.
Some of the problem is rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer, who's obviously struggling. Under 50 percent completions in three straight games. But a guy like Gordon, if he's healthy and interested in the proceedings, can help a young quarterback out. Certainly more ability to win contested grabs than Britt, Higgins and Louis.
But it doesn't sound like Gordon is particularly close to being reinstated, so careful before adding him over another prospect who's more likely to help fantasy teams -- this week, maybe this season.
--Andy Richardson