Jan 1, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Melvin Gordon (25) runs with the ball against the Auburn Tigers during the second half in the 2015 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Wisconsin Badgers defeated the Auburn Tigers 34-31 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
It’s no surprise that Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon is a popular 2015 NFL mock draft target for the Baltimore Ravens at #26. He has ties with the team, he recently had a visit with them, and general manager Ozzie Newsome has already said he wants to pair a young running back with Justin Forsett. Even in misinformation and misdirection season, it’s hard not to play connect the dots here.
After a few weeks of watching wide receivers and cornerbacks mocked to the Ravens, we are back to Gordon in the latest FanSided mock draft. Luke Dahlgren has the incredibly productive back landing in Baltimore and he thinks that it would be a steal for the team at this point in the draft.
"Ray who? Melvin Gordon may be the most complete back in the draft, demonstrating vision and balance that complements his power and burst through the hole. His combine saw his stock skyrocket, and for the Ravens, finding him at 26 is an absolute steal. Gordon’s concern is that he played behind an offensive line that gave him plenty of space to operate and run.The Ravens could very easily go with cornerback here, with Wake Forest’s Kevin Johnson still available."
I still have a hard time believing that the Ravens will go offense in the first round given their history, and I am pretty convinced that the Cowboys will take Melvin Gordon if the Ravens don’t. But I wouldn’t have any qualms if Gordon is the pick, and I don’t share the concerns that many pundits have. Heck, he could slot in behind Forsett and learn with no pressure.
Still, it’s pretty clear that the Ravens value offensive skill positions less than most teams. They don’t seem to be too concerned about adding a game breaking back, tight end, or wide receiver at this point. Ozzie values defensive players a great deal more, and that philosophy has paid off pretty well through the years.
Next: Melvin Gordon visiting with Ravens
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