John Harbaugh excited to put 'high pedigree' player in Ravens' RB mix

The Ravens (11-3) witnessed the second season-ending injury to their running back room (Keaton Mitchell) in Week 15. However, head coach John Harbaugh believes the answer is already on the team.

"Melvin Gordon is a high-pedigree football player in this league. It's almost kind of shocking that we're going to have the opportunity to put him into the mix right now," Harbaugh said. "He's been wanting to be in the mix ... so his opportunity comes, and he's been there before."

Gordon, who signed to Baltimore's practice squad in August, has played in a couple of games this season, posting 99 total yards on just 16 touches. Harbaugh told reporters that Gordon will be added to the team's active roster before Week 16.

Of course, losing RB J.K. Dobbins and Mitchell for the season is certainly a blow to the league's best rushing attack as the Ravens are averaging the most rushing yards per game (163.8). 

But running backs Gus Edwards and Justice Hill, who have combined for 976 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground, now paired with Gordon should keep things running smoothly. Having QB Lamar Jackson, who has rushed for 741 yards and five touchdowns, certainly helps as well.

Baltimore has quite the first test without Mitchell, however. The team is scheduled to go on the road this week to face the 49ers (11-3), who are allowing the third least rushing yards per game (89.4).

The Ravens are going to find out what they're made of quickly in what could be a preview of Super Bowl LVIII as both teams sit atop their respective conferences and Gordon could play a big role.

The 30-year-old's best days are surely behind him, but he can still prove that he can contribute to a Super Bowl-caliber team.