Updated

Finally unburdened from trade speculation, Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon believes his best football is ahead of him.

The 22-year-old Gordon has blossomed into one of the league's top deep threats in just his second season. He's relieved that Cleveland didn't deal him before Tuesday's trading deadline. Gordon feels he has matured on and off the field and wants to deliver for the Browns, who decided to hang on to him after taking trade offers from several teams.

Gordon knows there will always be "naysayers" who will question his effort and motives. But Gordon, who was suspended for the first two games this season for failing the NFL's substance-abuse policy, said he has changed some of his off-field behavior and wants to return the loyalty the Browns have shown him.