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FOXBOROUGH – Patriots receiver Josh Gordon was in the locker room Monday morning, his first appearance at Gillette Stadium since his conditional reinstatement by the league on Friday.
Gordon went through two times during the 45 minutes of media access – first to drop off a notebook and then to don his sneakers. His booth, sandwiched between Benjamin Watson's and Maurice Harris's, was visibly nude, compared to his teammates, but still wore a No. 10 white jersey, helmet, protective gear and other scattered items.
When asked if he had a few minutes to chat, Gordon politely refused.
"I do not have time today," he said. "But I'll be around."
As a player on the list of non-football related injuriesGordon did not practice with the team later in the afternoon. Although he was not in uniform, he participated in stretching and warming up by wearing a hat upside down. He was wearing game pants but no pads.
His teammates expressed their support as the 28-year-old returns after having an indefinite suspension for violating the league's addiction policy.
"It was refreshing to see him," said compatriot receiver Phillip Dorsett. "When you do not see someone, one of your brothers, for a long time and you see it, it's really refreshing."
"We all support him and hope that he will do well," added running back Rex Burkhead. "I was able to say hello to him briefly. He's a great player, a good guy. It's a pleasure to see him again. "
Coach Bill Belichick issued a statement Shortly after the announcement of Gordon's reinstatement Friday: "In the last eight months, Josh's situation has been a league affair. When Josh returns to our program, we will evaluate the whole situation and do what we think is best for Josh and his team. "
Pressed Monday to get more information, Belichick repeatedly referred to his statement – and even launched a joke about persistent queries.
Did he meet Gordon?
"I meet the players every day."
Is Gordon in a good mood?
"I have issued a statement on this subject. I have nothing to add. "
Did Gordon come in good shape?
"I think we've already covered everything."
After a pause, Belichick interrupted the next question and asked with a smile, "Have you received a copy of the statement?"
"I saw it on Twitter, "The reporter replied.
"Sorry, I do not do 'MyFace', but we'll be happy to give you a copy," Belichick said.
So, are there any uncertainties about Gordon's future with the Patriots?
"I mean, he's not even on the field yet," Belichick said. "I think I've covered it. There is nothing more to add.
He then joked "Is there another line of questions, or can the witness withdraw now?"
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