Melvin Gordon: Leading rookie rushing title contenders
By Luke Sims
Jan 1, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Melvin Gordon (25) stiff arms Auburn Tigers defensive back Johnathan Ford (23) during the first half in the 2015 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
1) Melvin Gordon, running back, San Diego Chargers
Landing in perhaps the best situation of all rookie running backs, Melvin Gordon is sitting pretty with the San Diego Chargers.
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The Chargers have a ridiculously strong quarterback in Philip Rivers, a decent offensive line, and will be more than willing to let Gordon act as a feature back.
The offensive line hasn’t always excelled as a run blocking, unit, however. Coming in as the worst graded run blocking unit according to Pro Football Focus, Gordon will have to be even more special. I don’t think that grade is truly indicative of how good they can be, though.
With Gordon leading as an early offensive rookie of the year candidate, it should come as no surprise that he leads NFL rookie running backs with a shot at the rushing title in 2015.
Drafted 15th overall and the second running back taken off the board, Melvin Gordon brings arguably the most success as a collegiate running back with him to the NFL. He had 2587 rushing yards with the Wisconsin Badgers in 2014, capping off a college career that saw him accumulate 4915 yards in mostly three seasons (he had just 20 attempts and 98 yards in 2011).
This is a running back who is used to being the primary ball carrier and the dominant running back. He’s used to a team relying on him. He doesn’t shy away from being the guy in an offense. He is ready to fulfill the high expectations placed on him.
Capable of carrying the load for the Chargers, Melvin Gordon still needs to emerge as the best option for the Chargers, beating out players like Danny Woodhead and Donald Brown. Of the three, I think that Gordon is easily the best of the bunch and will deservedly get more looks than the others. Expect him to come in hungry and really look to excel in his rookie season.
Next: Who can upset Melvin Gordon as the best rookie contender?