A lot of players have issues when adjusting to a new team in the NFL. There are all the obvious problems, such as fitting in with your new teammates and getting used to a different scheme or coaching staff. However, according to Jeff Legwold, running back Melvin Gordon had a different problem adjusting to the Denver Broncos, a problem that is specific to Denver, and only Denver.
It has nothing to do with the Broncos, the coaches, or anything like that. The problem? Altitude.
“I’m struggling a little bit, I’m struggling a up here little bit with the altitude,” Gordon told ESPN.com. “What I keep hearing is when we play other places, we won’t even get tired so I’m looking forward to that. . . . Right now it’s tough, trying to finish downfield, and things like that. It’s real dry, I’m trying to drink water every second, lips is dry. That’s the biggest adjustment, working all offseason and coming here and still feeling like you’re not in shape because of the altitude.”
This is one we all hear quite often for players that move to Denver. There is a reason the Broncos play at “Mile High Stadium.” The city is a little different than others. They are higher up in terms of altitude.
That affects breathing. It takes some getting used to. Gordon, for instance, talks about “finishing downhill” and being dry as a member of the Broncos.
He says his lips are dry and he's always trying to drink water. Broncos players get tired more quickly in Denver due to the air. He mentions that it makes him feel like he is still out of shape, although he isn't.
However, he also points out a positive. Gordon talks about playing away from Denver, and how he keeps hearing that the Broncos “won't even get tired” while playing in difference places.
Gordon is facing some major adjustments, but he's ready to help the Broncos.
Follow Us
Subscribe