2015 NFL Mock Draft: Melvin Gordon is a Colt

RB. Wisconsin. Melvin Gordon. 29. player. 46. <p>The Colts finally break the trend here and select a running back in the first round. Concerns about Todd Gurley’s knee and Gordon’s ability to help Andrew Luck out in the passing game pushes Indy towards the Wisconsin star, who had one of the most dominant years in college football history this past season.</p> <p>The Jamaal Charles comparison that you commonly see tagged to Gordon is a good one, and he could finally be the answer to the Colts backfield problems. They’ve swung and missed with Trent Richardson, and Wisconsin backs have a history of being overrated out of college after working behind quality offensive lines, but Gordon is a different beast.</p> <p>Gordon is a tall, upright runner at 6’1″ and although his 40 time doesn’t suggest it, he can outrun nearly everyone on the field with his long legs. The most exciting part of this addition for me would be his ability to contribute in the passing game. I believe in his potential to add 3-5 receptions per game in the flat which would do wonders for Andrew Luck’s development. Peyton Manning had Edgerrin James for much of his prime, so it’s time for Luck to have his own toy.</p> <p>The pass protection needs some work with Gordon, and so does the ball security, but this is a truly special talent. Issues along the offensive line must be addressed, as well, but the Colts may be better served filling those holes through free agency given their draft slot. Andrew Luck is capable of carrying this offense on his back, but the team will be better if he doesn’t have to.</p>