What Mike Vrabel, Josh Gordon said about veteran WR joining Tennessee Titans practice squad

Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel said Monday the “professionalism” of veteran receiver Josh Gordon has stood out in his first few days with the team.

The Titans signed Gordon to their practice squad Thursday. Ahead of his first practice with Tennessee on Monday, the former All-Pro wideout had been meeting regularly with receivers coach Rob Moore to get up to speed.

“Had some great interactions with him so far,” Vrabel said. “He seems to be excited to be here and we’ll see where he is as we get to the end of the week.”

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Gordon, 31, was cut by the Kansas City Chiefs last Tuesday as they whittled their roster to 53 players. He made 12 appearances last year, posting just five receptions for 32 yards and a touchdown.

The NFL’s receiving leader in 2013, Gordon’s production has dipped the last couple years. He didn't play in 2020 and has just 32 receptions since 2019, when he played with the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. He acknowledged It’s been difficult joining teams midseason.

“I know I’m coming in behind the eight ball,” Gordon said of joining the Titans. "Got to make up for lost time. That’s just one thing I got to do. It’s been an obstacle of mine. It’s just my issue. I don’t think it’s anything I can’t overcome. It’s more of a challenge I’m looking forward to.”

The biggest issue in Gordon’s career, however, has been availability.

He’s been suspended by the league six times since entering the league in 2012 for violating the NFL’s policies on performing-enhancing substances and substances of abuse, derailing what was once a promising career. He has also battled mental issues.

Vrabel said the Titans will be looking closely at how Gordon handles each day.

“I wouldn’t look at anything in the past,” Vrabel said. “We’re excited to work with him and see how he develops within our offense.”

Gordon looks forward to contributing to Tennessee. He said he’s been treated “like one of the guys” since he arrived last week.

“I feel like I’m in a great place,” Gordon said. “The last few years have probably been rough on everybody. COVID, recession, whatever is going on … But I’m blessed to have my family supporting me and the team as well. Coach Vrabel, the general manager here, the rest of my teammates. My position coach here. The Titans (for) extending every resource to help me out. I definitely will take them up on that offer, but I’m doing great. I’m enjoying myself here.”

Ben Arthur covers the Tennessee Titans for The USA TODAY Network. Contact him at barthur@gannett.com and follow him on Twitter at @benyarthur.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: What Josh Gordon said about joining Tennessee Titans practice squad