Before last year's NFL draft, no running backs had been selected in the first round since 2012 when Trent Richardson went third overall. We all know how that ended up. But while Todd Gurley emerged as a superstar for the Rams this past season, San Diego's Melvin Gordon was an unfortunate reminder of why the position has been devalued in recent seasons.
In 14 games, Gordon rushed for 641 yards on a 3.5 yards per carry and failed to score a single touchdown. In fact, his 184 carries without a score was the longest streak in the NFL this season. But new offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt believes that he can help the young back and had nothing but positive things to say about him when appearing on 1360 AM San Diego.
"I think one of the things that really impressed me the most - which you don't really get a sense for, of him playing college football - is how good of a receiver he is coming out of the backfield. He made some really good plays in that area."
Gordon did manage to haul in 33 of 37 targets, though he averaged just 5.8 yards per catch. Still, his consistent hands were a pleasant surprise which may lead to more playing time in 2016. San Diego's primary pass-catching back Danny Woodhead is such a good route runner that he could easily split out wide or move to the slot in certain formations. Say what you want about Whisenhunt as a head coach, but there's no denying that he's a creative offensive mind who could think up some clever formations with both backs on the field.
Assuming solid health, we should see more production out of Gordon in Year 2. He'll still have to improve his pass-blocking and cut down on the fumbles (five in 2015), but it's too early to give up on him after his stellar college career at Wisconsin. Chargers fans are hoping Whisenhunt can help him take the next step as a pro player.
