Belichick: Gordon has 'picked up a lot' since joining Patriots

Bill Belichick praised Josh Gordon but avoided questions about the receiver's off-field history and injury status Friday while welcoming him to the New England Patriots.

"Josh is a smart kid. He's worked hard, he's picked up a lot," Belichick told reporters, courtesy of Binge Sports' Casey Baker.

The Patriots traded a fifth-round draft pick to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for Gordon and a seventh-round selection earlier in the week.

Gordon comes to Foxborough with the distinction of being the NFL's leading receiver in 2013, but also with an extensive list of off-field issues that have limited him to 11 games in the four-plus seasons since.

As well, the 27-year-old is dealing with a hamstring injury sustained during a promotional event shortly before the Browns decided to part ways with him.

"I wouldn't talk about a player's personal or injury situations," added Belichick, who's preparing the Patriots to take on the Detroit Lions in Week 3.

Gordon participated in his first practice with the Patriots on Wednesday. If healthy and in the lineup, he could give New England a much-needed vertical threat in the passing game.