New England Patriots

Josh Gordon says he feels ‘as comfortable as ever’ in New England

"It’s a real home environment."

Josh Gordon warms up before a game against the Miami Dolphins.

By Nicole Yang

2 minutes to read

Wide receiver Josh Gordon started his first game with the Patriots Sunday afternoon against the Miami Dolphins.

Making his highly anticipated debut in New England, Gordon caught both of his targets from quarterback Tom Brady, finishing with two receptions for 32 yards. His first catch came on 3rd-and-6 inside the red zone during the first quarter, while his second delivered a 19-yard gain on 3rd-and-3 in the third quarter.

“It’s awesome catching a pass from Tom at any point in time,” Gordon said after the Patriots’ 38-7 rout of their AFC East foes. “He’s been rooting for me. It’s been awesome to have his support and his love, as well as the rest of the teammates and staff here. Tom’s a passionate guy, and I love that and I love the game of football. I think we’re gonna mesh just fine.”

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Gordon also contributed off the ball, making a noteworthy block on the second-quarter play that led to running back James White’s 22-yard touchdown run. Gordon ended up playing 18 of the Patriots’ 78 offensive snaps. After sitting out Week 3 due to a lingering hamstring injury, he said it “took a lot of effort and time” studying the playbook to get out on the field. The 27-year-old called his start a “concerted effort” from both himself and the team’s training staff. Brady, too, noted Gordon has put in “a lot of time trying to understand where to line up and what to do.”

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“It was an awesome experience,” Gordon said. “I really enjoyed it.”

Though the troubled receiver’s action was limited, Gordon flashed some of the talents that caught the league’s attention in 2013. Seven different players caught passes for the New England Sunday — a group Gordon hopes to continue to be a part of as the season moves forward. Up next for the Patriots are the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium Thursday night.

“I have no doubt I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity,” he said. “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. 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.”