Shanahan has said repeatedly that his scheme is designed for the quarterback to throw to the open receiver and not force the ball to a target, but he acknowledged Thursday the lure of Gordon.
“I can’t wait to get him back, looking forward to it,” he said. “And as soon as he’s ready to go, we’ll make sure to work to get him the ball.”
Shanahan said his entire focus is on figuring out how to move the ball and score Sunday against Houston. He’ll soon turn his attention to the best ways to take advantage of Gordon.
“I’m aware of how good Josh is and what he did last year and how talented he is,” Shanahan said. “So (I’m) as excited as anyone to get him back. But it’s definitely not something I’m thinking about until very early Monday morning when I wake up.”
There were some raised eyebrows last week when GM Ray Farmar said that Gordon would have to fit in to the offense, but Shanahan is keenly aware of his talent and ability to help his offense. He won't be the safest start in his first game back, but given his 2013 production and his matchup with a shaky Falcons pass defense, Gordon will be startable in Week 12, provided he has a solid week of practice and is in good physical condition.
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