OMNISPORT

Josh Gordon provided the Cleveland Browns with a boost on Wednesday as he returned to practice.

After being reinstated by the NFL on a conditional basis earlier this month, the Browns wide receiver was back in training for the first time since serving his indefinite suspension.

Browns coach Hue Jackson was thrilled to watch Gordon work with the team's quarterbacks on Monday for the first time since his reinstatement and said having him back after a lengthy ban was "like Christmas."

"I get to open a new toy," Jackson told reporters on Monday. "I know what is in that box, but I just want to see how good it is. It is exciting that he will be back out there."

Gordon, who has not played in a game since December 2014, spent 53 of Cleveland's last 58 games suspended due to multiple violations of the league's substance abuse policy.

He recently admitted that he was normally under the influence of alcohol or drugs for nearly every game of his career, but is looking to turn his life around after a stint in rehab.

Gordon, 26, won't play in Week 12 but could be activated as early as Monday and be able to play in Cleveland's game against the San Diego Chargers on December 3.

The winless Browns (0-10) will visit the division-rival the Cinncinati Bengals (4-6) this weekend.