NFL Ravens Secure Melvin Gordon with 1-Year Deal Worth Up to $3.1M

NFL
August 2, 2023

Melvin Gordon Joins Baltimore Ravens: Boosting Running Back Arsenal for NFL Dominance

Melvin Gordon, the seasoned NFL running back, has found a new home as he inked a one-year contract worth up to $3.1 million with the Baltimore Ravens. Gordon, 30, boasts a solid career, having previously played for the Los Angeles Chargers and the Denver Broncos. He will help get Ravens back into NFL Lines darlings.

During the previous season, after being released by the Broncos, Gordon joined the Kansas City Chiefs‘ practice squad. Though he didn’t see any game action, he was rewarded with a Super Bowl ring following the Chiefs’ championship triumph. Now, the Ravens have added him to their running back arsenal, joining the ranks led by J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, both of whom have battled injuries in recent years. Unfortunately, Dobbins and Edwards faced setbacks, with both players suffering torn ACLs that kept them sidelined for the entire 2021 season.

When fit, Dobbins stands out as the top running back for the Ravens. As a rookie in 2020, he showcased his explosive potential, rushing for 805 yards and nine touchdowns at an impressive 6.0 yards per carry. Despite playing only eight games in 2022 due to injury, Dobbins remained formidable, accumulating 520 yards and two scores while averaging 5.7 yards per carry. His potential for surpassing 1,000 rushing yards in a full season is evident.

Dueling Running Backs: Edwards’ Power Style vs. Gordon’s End Zone Prowess

On the other hand, Edwards brings a power-running style to the Ravens’ backfield. In 2020, he achieved a career-high of 723 rushing yards and six touchdowns, proving his value as a reliable option. Returning from injury in the following season, Edwards continued to be solid, amassing 433 rushing yards and three touchdowns at 5.0 yards per carry.

As for Gordon, he comes with an impressive résumé, being a two-time Pro Bowler. His ability to find the end zone consistently has been a hallmark of his career, scoring nine or more total touchdowns in six consecutive seasons from 2016 to 2021. Although he has only surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark once in his career, with 1,105 yards in 2017, Gordon has achieved over 1,100 total yards from scrimmage on five occasions.

Yet, last season didn’t quite showcase Gordon’s best performance. Playing for the Broncos, he had a career-low of 318 rushing yards on 90 carries and managed only two touchdowns in 10 games before being waived. In Denver, he was expected to take on the role of the clear-cut No. 1 running back after Javonte Williams’ ACL injury, but his fortunes took a turn as the coaching staff favored veteran back Latavius Murray.

Broncos Embrace Challenges and Opportunities in the New NFL Season

In Baltimore, Gordon may not be entrusted with a significant role if Dobbins and Edwards remain healthy. However, he provides crucial insurance for the Ravens, especially given the injury concerns that have affected their top two running backs in recent seasons. As the Ravens prepare for the upcoming campaign, the addition of Melvin Gordon adds depth and experience to the team’s running back corps, offering a valuable asset should the need arise.

As the NFL season unfolds, the Denver Broncos find themselves in a pivotal position with both potential and uncertainties. With a new season comes new opportunities, and the Broncos are eager to capitalize on their talented roster. However, the team faces significant challenges, particularly with the ongoing quarterback situation and the competitive landscape of the league. As fans and analysts alike closely monitor their progress, NFL odds fluctuate in response to each game’s outcome and player’s performances. Only time will reveal the true potential of this team, making every game a thrilling and suspenseful journey for Broncos fans and bettors alike.