Gordon content with smaller Patriots role: 'It's a relief'

A reduced role with the New England Patriots hasn't bothered Josh Gordon, who caught his first touchdown pass Thursday since being traded from the Cleveland Browns.

"It's a relief, if anything," Gordon told reporters after helping the Pats notch a 38-24 victory over the Indianapolis Colts to start Week 5. "Guys get to sit back a little bit and watch everybody do their own thing but make sure not to forget that you're also a part of this. When my opportunity presents itself, when my number gets called, I'm gonna go out there and give 100 percent, just like everybody else."

Gordon posted two receptions against the Colts for 50 yards and a score. The touchdown came on a 34-yard heave and was the 500th touchdown pass of Tom Brady's career.

"Similar to what I said last week, to catch any pass from Tom is amazing, let alone some history-making catch or pass," Gordon said. " ... The next history point to make for him, I hope to be a part of it."

Gordon played 20 snaps against the Colts, a week after he saw 18 snaps against the Miami Dolphins. He registered a pair of receptions in both contests while serving mostly as a secondary option for Brady.

In Cleveland, Gordon was counted on to be the No. 1 receiver whenever he was in the lineup. The 27-year-old led the NFL in receiving in 2013 but was suspended for most of the next four seasons due to off-field issues.

Gordon could see his snap count increase in the near future as his ailing hamstring gets healthier.