San Diego Chargers rookie Melvin Gordon did not pass protect much during his college tenure, but concerns about his ability in that area have been overblown, according to running backs coach Ollie Wilson.
Melvin Gordon’s pass-protection issues are exaggerated, per coach, fantasy stock rising
The Chargers’ rookie running back draws more positive reviews out of camp, this time from his position coach. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Wilson said of Gordon, via ESPN’s Eric D. Williams:
“When he matches up, he’ll put his head in and strike somebody,” Wilson said. “He’s a big-bodied guy, and he’s long, so he keeps people off of him. I don’t see what people say, that he won’t pass protect. I’ve had no problem with it.”
Pass protection is a common obstacle for rookies to overcome en route to every-down duties in the NFL, but it appears Gordon has a firmer grasp on those than initially perceived. Danny Woodhead and Branden Oliver are entrenched as the primary passing-down backs, although Gordon likely won't be a stranger to that role either.
Fantasy Spin: This is encouraging news for those who had concerns about Gordon’s chance of taking the field often enough to become a fantasy football force. For now, it seems like the Chargers are willing to let their first-round pick test his mettle on the field, even in potential problem areas for young backs.
Whether that translates to an every-down role is unlikely, given the capability of Woodhead and Oliver in passing situations. However, Gordon is very likely in line to handle early-down and goal-line work. He’s a high-upside RB2 that can be had at the end of the third round.
