Josh Gordon was conditionally reinstated by the NFL Wednesday. The timing of his return is very important.

Gordon must be active for six games this season to accrue a season towards his contract. The 26 year old is currently playing out a four year deal worth $5,341,648 that he signed as a rookie in 2012. He is scheduled to be a restricted free agent after the conclusion of the current season.

The wide receiver is allowed to return to the practice field on Nov. 20. Beginning Nov. 27, the Cleveland Browns must make a decision to either activate Gordon or keep him on the Commissioner's Exempt List for an additional week. His first game back would be the Dec. 3 contest against the Los Angeles Chargers, which would mean he can only play in five games this season. He would fall one game short of an accrued season so he would be a restricted free agent after the 2018 season. Cleveland retains his rights for two more years.

Gordon has recorded 161 receptions for 2,754 yards and 14 touchdowns in his career. The Baylor product was a second round choice in the 2012 NFL Supplemental Draft. Of a potential 80 regular season games since he entered the league, he has played in just 35.