Melvin Gordon to Visit the Dolphins
By Andrew Eisch
The NFL Draft is a mere two weeks away, rumors are swirling regarding draft-day trades as teams are scheduling their final workouts as they prepare their draft boards. On Tuesday, The Fort Worth Star Telegram reported the Miami Dolphins will host former Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon to a workout on April 22.
Amidst the scheduling of this workout, rumors have circulated indicating the Dolphins have interest in moving up in the draft for a chance at a wide receiver, or moving back in the draft to gain extra picks.
Hypothetically, the Dolphin’s 14th overall pick is worth an early pick in the 20’s in the first round, as well as a third round pick. Gordon is currently projected at pick #24 in Todd McShay’s latest mock draft.
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Although the running back position may not be a pressing need for the Dolphins in the first round, the Dolphins may be able to select Gordon and receive an early-round pick in exchange for the 14th overall pick, allowing the Dolphins to manage other pressing needs on the second day of the draft.
Gordon’s college career at the University of Wisconsin was marveled by college football fans throughout his four-year career. In his career as a Badger, Gordon rushed for almost 5,000 yards and earned himself a seat as a 2015 Heisman finalist, among numerous other accolades.
This year’s draft features a stellar running back draft class that is highlighted by Gordon and Todd Gurley of Georgia. Gurley, who is projected to be drafted earlier than Gordon, has also been regarded as a potential match for the Dolphins at pick 14. Click here to read about the Dolphins chances at Gurley.
"“It’s me against Todd right now,” Gordon said according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I’m a playmaker. I can run the ball up the middle. I can run it outside. I can run the ball from the gun. I can do it all,” Gordon added. “I can catch the ball and make some plays; I’ve done it. … I think guys just automatically assume because I’m not 230 and I’m not straight bulldozing guys over that I’m not a strong runner, which is false. … I’m a special back, and I know I am.”"
There is no doubt Gordon has running ability. Known for his astounding athletic abilities, Gordon has the speed and athleticism to break big plays.
Strengths
Known as an electric runner with incredible bounce, Gordon has a lengthy physique that has been compared to Jamaal Charles. Gordon averaged 7.8 yards per rush in his career with the Badgers, and had staggering success bouncing carries outside of the hash-marks. Spanning over several years, Gordon did not fumble the football for his first 322 carries. Gordon has impressive speed and acceleration that can get him from level to level in the span of a few strides. He has the ability to burst through the seam at any given moment, while rarely over the football.
Weaknesses
Gordon has been criticized for his need to bounce outside too often. Often caught from behind due to his cuts, Gordon’s running style may not match with the NFL. According to NFL.com, Gordon had trouble running between the tackles, being “stuffed” on nearly 19 percent of his carries. Aside from his lack of gritty between the tackle running, Gordon reportedly has trouble pass blocking, leaving experts to think he has high upside with speed, but very little strength.
Overall, Gordon likely won’t break the top 20 picks in the 2015 NFL Draft. If the Dolphins decide to trade back in the draft and land a pick in the early 20’s the Dolphins may have a chance to upgrade the running back position with Melvin Gordon.