Belichick coy on plan for Gordon: 'We will evaluate the entire situation'

Josh Gordon is back in the NFL, but it appears the wide receiver still has work to do to secure his place with the New England Patriots.

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick released a brief statement on Gordon's conditional reinstatement Saturday, highlighting the fact the team hasn't been involved in the receiver's case since the NFL suspended him indifferently in December for once again violating its substance abuse policy.

"For the past eight months, Josh's situation has been entirely a league matter," said Belichick. "When Josh returns to our program, we will evaluate the entire situation and do what we feel is best for Josh and the team."

Gordon is eligible to rejoin New England on Sunday, though it's unclear if he'll be ready to suit up for any preseason action.

The former Pro Bowler reportedly failed multiple tests for "more than marijuana" despite the Patriots putting him under surveillance last season in an attempt to prevent a violation.

Gordon's third indefinite suspension of his career cost him the final two games of the regular season and New England's entire Super Bowl run. Easily the Patriots' most talented wideout, he racked up 720 yards and three touchdowns over 11 games in 2018.

Though the 28-year-old would bolster New England's chances of retaining the Lombardi Trophy, it appears Belichick is taking a cautious approach to his return.