According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Browns were initially willing to part with Gordon along with fellow wide receiver Greg Little:

Cleveland fielding offers for and open to trading WRs Josh Gordon and Greg Little. At least one team has made a quality offer for Gordon. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 22, 2013

ESPN's Adam Caplan added that Gordon had actually been on the trade block for "several weeks":

On #Browns WR Josh Gordon, he's been on the trade block for several weeks, source said. Banner wants him out, very clear, source said. — Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) September 22, 2013

Browns head coach Rob Chudzinski stated the team would not trade Gordon, however. The deadline passed without a deal.