Earlier this week, Ben noted reports that former Baylor wide receiver Josh Gordon was in Salt Lake City this past weekend visiting Utah and contemplating a transfer to the Utes. The visit made sense as initial reports following Gordon’s abrupt departure from the Bears had the newly-minted Pac-12 school as a likely landing spot.
Thus, it also makes sense that the rumors have come to fruition and the visit has turned into an official transfer.
According to the Deseret News, Gordon is enrolled in classes at Utah and practiced with his new Utes teammates Tuesday. Head coach Kyle Whittingham confirmed the speedy addition following the practice session.
“We did our homework. We did our research. We talked to many, many coaches and people associated with Josh,” said Whittingham. “We felt that he deserves a second chance and we’re going to give him that. ...
“He’s here. He’s a very, very talented kid, that’s obvious.”
Gordon will not be permitted to play immediately due to NCAA transfer rules, but Whittingham said the receiver will practice with the scout team throughout the 2011 season.
What Gordon will add to the Utes’ passing attack beginning next spring is a veteran and immensely talented deep threat. While Gibson’s 42 receptions were “only” good for fourth on the Bears last season, his 714 receiving yards were second on the team. Additionally, and more importantly, his yards per reception (17.0) was far and away tops on the Bears, while his seven touchdown receptions were tied for the team lead.
On July 24, Baylor announced that Gordon had been suspended indefinitely from the program for violating unspecified team rules. Just over three weeks later, it was announced Gordon was transferring.
We’d also be beyond remiss in not noting that Gordon was one of two Baylor football players in October 2010 who were found “sleeping” in the drive-thru lane at an on-campus Taco Bell at two o’clock in the morning. And, again, dudes were sleeping and/or passed out in the drive-thru lane of a Taco Bell.
