New England Patriots: Tom Brady sees potential in Josh Gordon

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is excited about his new teammate, wide receiver Josh Gordon.

The New England Patriots got back into the win column in Week 4. The Patriots destroyed their AFC East rivals, the Miami Dolphins, 38-7. The victory snapped a two-game losing streak and things are looking up again in Foxboro.

It was a solid team victory over a team that came into the game riding a hot streak. People spoke of the Patriots’ demise once again, and once again, it seems to have been premature. The team is about to get some reinforcements back as well.

The wide receiver spot has been troublesome for the Patriots this season. However, things are going to pick up soon. Julian Edelman is eligible to return from his four-game suspension this week.

Brady has missed his security blanket for a while now. Edelman did not play last season either, so his return has been anticipated for a long time. The wide receiver that gets everyone excited, however, is Josh Gordon.

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The Patriots acquired Gordon in a trade from the Cleveland Browns prior to their Week 3 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Gordon was not active for that game but was active against the Dolphins.

Gordon only played 18 out of 81 plays but made the most of it. He had two receptions, both of which went for first downs, for 32 yards. It was encouraging to see him get on the field and make an immediate impact despite the limited playing time.

Brady went into the game trying to keep the expectations for Gordon in check. After playing with him, those expectations have risen.

"“He’s been really working hard and trying to get things right,” Brady said during an interview on WEEI’s “Kirk & Callahan.” “I don’t feel like I had to worry about where he was lining up or what he was running. He was super confident. I could tell in his eyes he knew what he was doing.” “He’s just been great since he’s came in. So, hopefully we can keep it going and build on it.”“Still a lot of things to learn and improve on, and when we really get to know each other, hopefully all the hard work really pays off and we become really a great offense,” Brady said. ” … Josh really did a great job (Sunday), along with a lot of other guys.”"

This was certainly a step in the right direction for Gordon. Having the confidence of Brady is not something everyone gets, especially this quickly. Gordon’s locker is next to Brady’s, something that will also help their rapport going forward.

Gordon still has a lot to learn, as he has been with the team for only two weeks. With his talent, he could be a difference maker for New England. He is the most talented wide receiver the Patriots have had since Randy Moss was running routes for them.

Gordon should see his reps increase. On a short week, as the Patriots play on Thursday Night against the Indianapolis Colts, Gordon could see a similar usage this week.

With extra practice days leading up to Week 6, the Patriots could fully unleash Gordon by then if he continues to learn the playbook and work hard off the field.