Fantasy football RB: 13 Rookies ready for impact

Melvin Gordon-San Diego Chargers

The only rookie going earlier in current fantasy football drafts than Gurley is Melvin Gordon.  Gordon was drafted five picks after Gurley in the 2015 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers, and he’s projected by most to step right in and make an instant impact.

Gordon has reportedly been excellent in training camp with the exception of pass protection.  His struggles in the blocking scheme are not unexpected for a rookie, but it could limit his value on third down. Already, the Chargers should have Danny Woodhead to fill that role which leaves the first two downs as Gordon’s to claim. Branden Oliver who flashed some potential after joining the team last year as an undrafted rookie and veteran Donald Brown are still on the Bolts’ roster, but all signs point to Gordon stepping right in as the team’s primary early-down back.

Provided that remains the case throughout the preseason, Gordon’s #15 ADP among running backs seems about right. I wouldn’t take him above some of the more proven options just outside the top ten, but he’s stepping into a good situation where he’ll be called upon to contribute in a high-scoring division.

He sets up to be a solid RB2 in a good offense, but remember the Chargers throw the ball a lot around the goal line and the presence of all the other options, especially on third down, could limit Gordon’s upside.  I see him as a strong RB2, but don’t overreach and expect him to develop into a top ten fantasy football RB this season.

Next: T.J. Yeldon-Jacksonville Jaguars