Broncos' Gordon not conceding feature role: 'I'm not going to lay down'
Although Denver Broncos running back Melvin Gordon believes most people have slotted in Javonte Williams as the team's starter, the veteran rusher isn't willing to concede the lead role.
"I told (general manager George Paton) when I was at the (negotiating) table, I'm not going to lay down ... I've always got that mindset that I've got to go get it every year," Gordon said, according to ESPN's Jeff Legwold.
"I know a lot of people want me to take the back seat, and I get it. It's been like that for a while. It was like that with the (Los Angeles) Chargers - everybody wanted Austin (Ekeler) to start. I just come out here and do my thing. Thanks for the motivation everybody, I appreciate y'all."
Williams has been Denver's lead back during most of the team's on-field work this offseason after rushing for 903 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie in 2021. However, he previously noted that "if I have to split carries, or if I'm the starter, it doesn't matter. Whatever it is, I'm just trying to win the Super Bowl." Williams added that he'd kept in touch with Gordon.
Gordon skipped the club's voluntary OTAs. Monday marked the first time he's practiced with his teammates since re-signing with the Broncos on a one-year, $2.5-million contract.
The tailback's third campaign with the Broncos will see him reunited with former college teammate Russell Wilson, who Denver acquired in a blockbuster trade. Gordon will also work with a new head coach in Nathaniel Hackett, who's eager to see him in action.
"We're excited to put him in there and watch him roll," Hackett said.
He added: "You can't have too many running backs."
Gordon missed just one contest last season despite fighting through hip, shoulder, and thumb ailments. He rushed for a team-high 918 yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 4.5 yards per carry. Gordon also hauled in 28 receptions for 213 yards.
Copyright (C) 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.