Josh Gordon still has not been cleared to practice since making his return to the Cleveland Browns, but head coach Hue Jackson won’t rule him out for the team’s final preseason game.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Jackson said it’s “possible” Gordon could be cleared to practice next week after the team plays against the Philadelphia Eagles, per Nate Ulrich of Ohio.com. He also said, “I wouldn’t be opposed” to Gordon playing in the team’s final preseason game on August 30 against the Detroit Lions.
Obviously, if Gordon is cleared to practice, and if he’s healthy in both mind and body, then the best possible outcome would be for the young receiver to get into a game before the regular season begins.
Gordon has been away from the team all throughout training camp attending to a personal matter, and he’s going to take some time to get into game shape. Last year he came off suspension and looked very good upon his return to the gridiron, so we know he’s capable of getting his body right quickly.
So far in his NFL career, Gordon has caught 179 passes for 3,089 yards and 15 touchdowns, and he led the league with 1,646 receiving yards in 2013, despite playing in only 14 games.