The Chiefs Have Signed RB Melvin Gordon
Career breakdown and my thoughts on the signing.
Justin Miles (@justm1les)
Per sources, the Kansas City Chiefs have signed running back Melvin Gordon to their practice squad. First off, congratulations to Melvin and welcome to Kansas City! Let’s take a look at his career so far.
Gordon started off his football career by becoming a record-breaking star at the University of Wisconsin. He entered the draft as a highly desired player, in which he was taken by the then San Diego Chargers 15th overall in 2015.
Gordon played 5 seasons for the Chargers, becoming an impressive superstar.
Throughout his time there, Gordon played in 67 games. In those games, Melvin tallied 1,284 total touches for 6,113 yards and 47 touchdowns.
He became one of the league’s best players and was a fan favorite. After his 5 years with the organization, Gordon signed with the Denver Broncos.
While it is obvious a section of Gordon’s time in Denver was not as successful as expected, he still played a great role for the team and put up good numbers.
Through 41 games with the team, Melvin racked up 593 total touches en route to 2,816 yards and 22 touchdowns.
Even after playing a solid role in Denver, Gordon was cut from the team earlier this season. He recently has faced struggles securing the football and was cut for his fumbling issue.
While his 2022 campaign may not have been great, it is obvious that he was not the reason for the Bronco’s offensive fails.
He has now joined the Chiefs’ practice squad. This signing has sparked controversy across Chiefs Kingdom, drawing hate from certain “fans”.
Here are my thoughts on the signing:
I personally think Gordon could be a great addition to the team. He has extremely high upside and adds a veteran leadership to a rather young running back room.
It is possible that Clyde Edwards-Helaire has played his last snap in KC. This leaves Isiah Pacheco and Jerick McKinnon as the one-two punch. Last night, Ronald Jones emerged as the third guy in the room, however that spot may still be up for grabs.
Gordon could be an addition for not only a playoff push, but for seasons to come.
He is a proven veteran who could turn out to be the perfect fit for the team. He is a two time Pro Bowler and was ranked 34th overall in the 2019 NFL Top 100.
Since 2018, he has had 97 total broken tackles and averages 4.4 yards per carry. Not to mention, he is an excellent pass blocker.
His two “weaknesses” have been battles with injuries and fumbling.
However, in a three man room in Kansas City there will obviously be a limited snap count. Split reps would allow Gordon to rest, keeping his body healthier.
Through his 8 seasons in the NFL, Melvin has fumbled 16 times, 5 of those coming this season. I have no doubt that Andy Reid and Co can get the issue resolved. Gordon’s career has lacked great coaching. It will be a great change of pace for him to have a coach or Reid’s stature. We have seen great coaches fix fumbling issues before (see; Frank Gore).
Overall, I think Gordon is a high profile player that will likely be a great addition to the team. I believe he is capable of fulfilling a great veteran role for the team. He could become a key contributor moving forward.
Once again, welcome to Kansas City, Melvin and Go Chiefs!
Stats via: Pro Football Reference
