2020 NFL Free Agency: Early predictions for top 25 players

22. RB Melvin Gordon, Los Angeles Chargers

2019 Salary: $4,615,882

Where he will sign: Los Angeles Chargers

Melvin Gordon held out this offseason in hopes of landing a massive contract extension. It didn’t work, and his absence actually cost him rather dearly — Austin Ekeler was given the opportunity to prove himself as an explosive, dependable weapon out of the backfield.

Upon his return, Gordon immediately stepped into a timeshare with Ekeler. And in all honesty, I would say that the latter has been more of a standout than the former first-round pick. The film would seem to back up that statement, which could make landing that big-money deal this offseason difficult for Gordon.

So instead of him taking a discount to sign elsewhere, I wouldn’t be surprised if Gordon instead opted to sign a short-term deal with the Los Angeles Chargers. That’ll give him an opportunity to revive his stock and give other clubs a reason to dish out more dough next offseason.

There’s no denying that Gordon is a supremely talented runner who can be a game-breaker when he’s got it going. However, this season has also given us glimpses of the less-appealing aspects of his game. Another year in Los Angeles to recoup his value would be a wise decision for Gordon.