Josh Gordon released: Where could he land next?

The Kansas City Chiefs released wide receiver Josh Gordon. Where could he land next?

The Kansas City Chiefs have released wide receiver Josh Gordon, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

Gordon became a household name after leading the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 (1,646). Unfortunately, he struggled to stay on the field due to a series of suspensions for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. He appeared in only five games in 2014, and he missed the 2015 and 2016 seasons altogether.

Last season, Gordon appeared in 12 games for the Chiefs, and he hauled in five out of 14 targets for 32 yards and a touchdown. Gordon’s run with the Chiefs was underwhelming, but few available wide receivers carry his upside.

In recent years, Gordon has played at a high level when given an opportunity. He recorded 70+ receiving yards five times for the New England Patriots in 2018. In 2019, he had six receptions for 83 yards in a game against the New York Jets.

Potential Landing Spots for Josh Gordon

The Green Bay Packers are a logical fit for Gordon. After losing Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, their wide receiver room lacks proven options. Allen Lazard, Sammy Watkins, and Randall Cobb are solid players, but Gordon offers a higher ceiling. With Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, the Packers are in win-now mode, and Gordon could give a needed boost to their offense.

The Chicago Bears could be a fit for Gordon, as well. The Bears’ wide receiver depth behind Darnell Mooney is embarrassingly thin. Outside of Mooney, the Bears do not have a single wide receiver on their roster, who posted a 70+ PFF grade last season. Projected starter Equanimeous St. Brown has recorded only 16 receptions over the last two years. Upgrading the wide receiver position would help set up Justin Fields for success this season. Rolling the dice on Gordon is a low-risk, high-return move.

Finally, do not rule out the Chiefs as a landing spot. According to Pelissero, the Chiefs are open to bringing Gordon back.