Report: Chargers' Gordon faces challenge to be active vs. Chiefs

Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon's absence has extended beyond the bottom end of the team's expected timeline for his return, and while he previously called himself a game-time decision for Week 15, it will be "challenging" for him to play Thursday versus the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Gordon is officially listed as questionable but will make the trip to Kansas City. Head coach Anthony Lynn said on Tuesday that he wasn't optimistic about the running back's availability.

Should he miss the pivotal AFC West contest, it would mark his third straight game out of the lineup.

Austin Ekeler has already been ruled out due to a concussion and neck issue, so the Chargers could potentially turn to rookie Justin Jackson to carry the load against their division rival.

Los Angeles promoted running back Troymaine Pope from the practice squad on Thursday, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

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