Melvin Gordon still has not signed a new deal or received a trade but sources say he will not do like Le’Veon Bell and sit out the entire season.
Melvin Gordon Wants to Be a Charger
The situation between Melvin Gordon and the Los Angeles Chargers is different to what happened with Le’Veon Bell and the Steelers. First of all, Melvin Gordon wants to be a Charger. He has said that repeatedly and that still appears to be true. The other major difference is that Gordon is unlikely to sit out the season.
The Chargers made Gordon an offer that he doesn’t like so he is doing what he feels is best for his future. He said that although he wants to be a Charger, he has to protect himself. Considering his injury history, that’s understandable from his point of view. Him and his agent have probably spoken to other teams and they feel like he will get the guaranteed money he wants elsewhere.
The Chargers Have a High Asking Price
In terms of him getting traded, it seems like the Chargers price is too much for teams around the league. Why send a bunch of draft picks now when you can just wait and go after him in free agency? The Chargers stance makes sense too. They would rather have Melvin Gordon than trade him. Even if he ends up walking at the end of the season, they expect to be in the playoffs this year. If they can have him back for the playoffs, he could really give them that extra push in their quest for a Super Bowl.
At the same time, they know Melvin Gordon doesn’t have animosity toward the organization. His teammates also seem to be supporting with franchise QB Philip Rivers saying he was “pulling for” Gordon. With all of that in mind, the most likely play for Gordon is to come back around midseason so that he can still have this year count toward his free agency.
It’s Just Business Not Personal
The contract situation between Gordon and the Chargers is interesting because there genuinely doesn’t seem to be any animosity. The player has one view of his worth and the organization has another. The way running backs have been devalued in the NFL, it’s no surprise the Chargers are playing hardball.
At the same time, the Chargers offense looked good without Gordon in week 1 which is too early to make any predictions. If they can manage without him while he holds out, it only validates the Chargers stance in this contract dispute. One look at their roster and there are way too many people they have to pay to afford a top tier running back salary.
It’s Now or Never for Both Gordon and the Chargers
Franchise QB Philip Rivers isn’t getting any younger and it appear that Melvin Gordon’s time as a Charger will be coming to an end this season. If they can get Derwin James back fully healthy in time for the playoffs, this might be the best opportunity the Chargers will have at making a Super Bowl run.
