Melvin Gordon staying ready, says he’s ‘just waiting on the call’

E.Jay Zarett

Melvin Gordon staying ready, says he’s ‘just waiting on the call’ image

Melvin Gordon’s holdout continues. 

The 26-year-old running back is seeking a new contract or a trade away from the Chargers and has stayed away from the team’s facility for the entire preseason. 

Gordon, however, recently told ESPN he is staying ready to play by working out “rigorously” in California. 

“Just waiting on the call,” said Gordon, who is reportedly prepared to sit out the entire season if a resolution isn’t reached. 

The Chargers originally selected Gordon out of Wisconsin with the No. 15 pick in the 2015 draft. He has rushed for 3,628 yards and scored 38 total touchdowns during his four-year career.

“Look, we drafted Melvin in the first round for a reason,” Chargers general manager Tom Telesco told reporters at the start of training camp, via the Southern California News Group. “Traded up to take him. Obviously, we value him and the position to do that and we would like to sign him to an extension.

“Do I condone holding out? No, I don’t condone (it). But I think he’s been pretty professional with his comments from what I’ve seen.”

Gordon has one year remaining on his rookie contract, which will pay him about $5.6 million, according to Spotrac.

“He’s an excellent player,” Telesco said. “He’s tough. Great work ethic. Represents the organization extremely well. But he’s not here. I understand his thoughts and opinions on what he’s going through. I always look at the player’s side. I can see it. Doesn’t mean I agree with it, but I can kind of see what his thought process is.”

The Chargers have two preseason games remaining before they host the Colts in Week 1 action Sept. 8.

 

E.Jay Zarett