Former coach Pat Shurmur and his staff were not thrilled with WR Josh Gordon's approach during the 2012 training camp. The coaches taught him how to prepare for practice and film work. He seemed to believe his immense natural talent was enough. By midseason, they thought Gordon had made enormous progress, with former offensive coordinator Brad Childress praising Gordon for "always carrying his notebook" and taking notes.
But at the NFL Combine last week, CEO Joe Banner said: "I think Josh has to keep working hard and improving. ... A top-of-the-second-round pick on a wide receiver, you would hope by the second or third year you'd have a big, big impact player."
Gordon did not finish strong, having only eight catches for 73 yards in his final three games. He had only one touchdown in his last nine games.
Gordon should have a nice year in Norv Turner's vertical passing game, which treated Vincent Jackson quite well while he was in San Diego. WR is a very deep position right now, so fantasy owners would be wise not to reach for Gordon too early. Remember, he failed three drug tests (marijuana) while in college.
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