Coming off of a microfracture surgery he underwent in January, San Diego Chargers running back, Melvin Gordon, sees himself on the inside track for a 100 percent recovery by the time training camp begins.
Given the surgery’s four to six month recovery timetable, Gordon hopes to be on the former end of that spectrum.
Speaking to the media back in May, Gordon suggested he’s ahead of schedule. “I’m not where I want to be, but I think I’m ahead of schedule.” Gordon stated. “I’m sprinting pretty well. I’m cutting . . . No question I’ll be ready for training camp. I’m not even worried about that.”
Fast forward to June, and Gordon’s prognosis remains consistent. During mid-month mini camp practices, Gordon reassured the media of his positive outlook. “I was missing some cuts that I was seeing but that I didn’t feel I could get there. But now I feel like anytime I see a cut that needs to be made, I can make it.”
Gordon’s statements came after 7-on-7 drills where he was able to more sincerely test his surgically repaired left leg.
Moving Forward
Entering the 2015 NFL season, San Diego had reason to be excited about their running game with the addition of 15th overall pick, Melvin Gordon. Gordon, who rushed for over 2,500 yards in his final season for Wisconsin, probably didn’t see the struggles brought about by his rookie year.
By the end of the 2015 season, Gordon amassed only 641 yards to the clip of 3.5 yards per carry and no rushing or receiving touchdowns on the year. As a team, the Chargers were second worse in yards per game at 89.4.
Still, Gordon has a lot to build on given last year’s handicaps.
It is in the Charger's best interest to allow him to lead the offense on the ground in a more holistic way. A bigger projected role in the offense should have Gordon play more often on passing downs and no huddle situations in lieu of veteran Danny Woodhead.
The biggest aspect of Gordon's resurgence will center around a healthy offensive line which brings back Joe Barksdale, King Dunlap, D.J. Fluker, and Orlando Franklin, who when healthy, projects to be in the upper half of offensive lines in the league.
Ultimately, 2016 may be looked back on as Gordon's most important year of his career. Running backs tend to prove their worth once they've shown their hand, and for the sakes of both Gordon and the Chargers, there's hope for a full house.