Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon plans to play against the Arizona Cardinals, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Gordon is listed as questionable due to knee and hamstring injuries, and some with the Chargers were reportedly hoping to rest him for “maintenance.” However, Schefter reports the 25-year-old was able to convince coaches he could play this weekend.
Gordon is having a stellar all-around season for the 7-3 Chargers. He has carried the ball 143 times for 741 yards and seven touchdowns, giving him a terrific 5.2 yards per carry. He has also made a big impact in the passing game, catching 42 balls for 448 yards and four scores.
Article Continues BelowGordon is sixth in the NFL in rushing, seventh in yards per attempt and tied for fourth in rushing touchdowns. His eight rushes of 20 or more yards is tied for most in the league. When you factor in his four receiving touchdowns, Gordon's 11 total scores is tied for fifth with Pittsburgh Steelers stars Antonio Brown and James Conner.
While Melvin Gordon will play, Los Angeles may look to limit his touches a bit. If so, that would mean a bigger role for 23-year-old Austin Ekeler. Ekeler has 65 rushing attempts for 374 yards on the season, plus 22 catches for 286 yards. The Gordon-Ekeler duo has been dynamic all season, and the weak Cardinals defense is vulnerable against the run.