The Baltimore Ravens have reached an agreement in principle with free-agent running back Melvin Gordon on a one-year deal, the team announced on Friday. This move comes as the Ravens look to bolster their running back room and add depth and experience to their roster. Here’s what you need to know about the signing:
Adding a veteran RB felt like a necessity
Prior to the acquisition of Melvin Gordon, the Ravens’ running back room consisted of J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, Justice Hill, and undrafted rookies Keaton Mitchell and Owen Wright. However, injuries have plagued Dobbins and Edwards in recent seasons, with Dobbins missing 26 games over the past two years and sustaining a major knee injury in the 2021 preseason. Edwards has also missed 25 games over the past two years and dealt with a major knee injury in 2021. With these concerns, it was clear that the Ravens needed to add depth and experience to their running back group.
Gordon will still have to make the team
While Melvin Gordon’s deal is reportedly worth “up to” $3.1 million, it should not be seen as a guarantee that he will be a significant contributor to the Ravens’ backfield this year. The contract is heavily incentivized, meaning that Gordon will have to prove himself and earn his spot on the 53-man roster. If the other running backs on the team, such as Dobbins, Edwards, Hill, or Mitchell, perform well and stay healthy during training camp and preseason, Gordon’s spot on the roster is not guaranteed.
Backstory
Melvin Gordon was drafted by the San Diego Chargers with the 15th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. His best season came in 2017 when he recorded a career-high 1,105 rushing yards. In 2020, Gordon signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Denver Broncos before re-signing with them on a one-year contract for the 2022 season. Last year, he rushed for 318 yards, caught 25 passes, and had five fumbles in 10 games with the Broncos before being released.
Gordon’s career statistics include 6,462 rushing yards, 55 touchdowns on the ground, and 309 receptions with 14 touchdowns through the air.
In conclusion, the addition of Melvin Gordon to the Baltimore Ravens’ roster brings much-needed depth and experience to their running back room. While Gordon will have to earn his spot on the team, his presence provides insurance against potential injuries and adds another weapon to the Ravens’ offensive arsenal. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the signing of Gordon signals their commitment to strengthening their roster and competing at a high level in the NFL.