Melvin Gordon has found his next NFL home, and it will allow him to remain in the AFC West. The veteran running back is joining the Chiefs on their practice squad, reports NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero (Twitter link). Gordon himself has confirmed the move.
Gordon was waived last week, ending his tenure in Denver on a low note. The 29-year-old’s production had fallen off notably compared to his first two campaigns in the Mile High City, and five lost fumbles made for a significant talking point. As the Broncos’ offense continued to search for answers in the backfield, the two sides parted ways, allowing him to catch on elsewhere to finish the season.
Gordon indicated not long after he went unclaimed that there were multiple teams, including playoff contenders, which were showing interest in him. The AFC-leading Chiefs would certainly qualify as such, with a 9-2 record and the league’s top scoring and total offense. Much of their production has come through the air, however, with the team’s ground game ranking only 19th in the league with an average of 115 yards per game.
Kansas City is also thin in the backfield at the moment with Clyde Edwards-Helaire being placed on IR due to a high-ankle sprain. That has cleared the way for the team’s leading rusher, rookie Isiah Pacheco, to continue operating as the lead back. Gordon could provide veteran insurance behind him if, as expected, he finds himself on the active roster soon.
Denver and Kansas City have yet to play each other this season, so Gordon could have two opportunities (in Weeks 14 and 17) to suit up against his former team in much the same way he did as a Bronco against his original employer, the Chargers. How much of a role he has on his third AFC West club could be worth watching as the Chiefs look to go on another deep postseason run.
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