Los Angeles Chargers fans along with fantasy football owners across the world could be rejoicing to this news item on Wednesday morning. Indeed, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that the Chargers’ star running back Melvin Gordon could soon be ending his holdout. The report originates from one of Schefter’s sources – and typically – his sources are on point.
Here is the official tweet:
Chargers’ RB Melvin Gordon’s holdout could soon be coming to an end, though no final decisions have made when to report, per league sources. He had planned to return at some point in October, but could soon be moving up his reporting date.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 25, 2019
Additionally, Schefter says that Gordon planned to report at some point in October. However, we learn through this developing storyline that something has made Gordon move up that timeline. Perhaps the factor that has Gordon considering an early return is Austin Ekeler.
Ekeler is a third year running back who has assumed the starting role in Gordon’s absence. Equally important, he’s done an adequate job. While Gordon has been missing in action, Ekeler has 160 yards on the ground two rushing touchdowns. He’s also added 19 catches for 208 yards and two receiving touchdowns.
Moreover – if Gordon is coming back – he has only until late-November to do so. This is out of the ESPN story linked above:
He must report no later than Nov. 29 to play in 2019 and accrue credit for this season toward becoming a free agent in the offseason.
Gordon, 26, continues to hold out because of a contract impasse with the Chargers. Gordon’s representation was granted permission by the Chargers to pursue a trade, but so far no deal has materialized.
Los Angeles opens the season a disappointing 1-2 after losing a close 27-20 game to the Houston Texans this past Sunday. While getting Gordon back in the lineup can’t be considered a bad thing, he won’t fix all blemishes overight.
Gordon is in his age-26 season, and has crossed the 1,000-yard barrier just once in his four-year career. However, he has 182 catches in those four seasons; and is considered an excellent receiving back that fits with the Chargers’ offensive attack.
By getting Gordon back in the lineup, the Chargers should become a little more formidable. Finally, expect a flurry of trade talk in your fantasy league this week regarding the sudden blooming stock of Melvin Gordon.
