10 leading candidates for rookie of the year
By Andrew Garda
Melvin Gordon, RB, San Diego
Melvin Gordon doesn’t have the pure talent that Todd Gurley does, and is a much more limited runner. He doesn’t catch the ball and isn’t much to crow about in pass protection, but he’s the perfect complement to Branden Oliver and Danny Woodhead.
He’s also a perfect fit behind the offensive line the San Diego Chargers have. At 6’1”, Gordon could get lost by the defense behind a line which tends toward 6’3” and up.
Gordon will also benefit from the passing offense the Chargers feature. Quarterback Philip Rivers should have another good year, and the weapons around him are very good. Malcom Floyd has come all the way back from a serious injury a few years ago, while Keenan Allen keeps looking impressive. Jacoby Jones, Austin Pettis and Stevie Johnson are all nice complimentary weapons as well.
And while tight end Antonio Gates is aging and wants a reduced role, he’s still a big weapon and Ladarius Green might finally have the breakout year we’ve been waiting for if Gates gives up targets.
All that is to say it is unlikely that Gordon will see much in the way of stacked boxes.
The defense is good enough to keep things close as well, so he shouldn’t have to sit on the bench waiting for them to catch up. He could be grinding the clock instead.
Of course, the two-down back label is a tough one. If he can’t be on the field for three downs, he’s not going to be able to get as many touches, which means less opportunities and maybe less yards.
Next: Nelson Agholor, WR, Philadelphia Eagles