![Sections Sections](https://trangangolf.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/23150242/412962084_779100577563268_3371857793184435682_n.jpg)
Chargers running back Melvin Gordon recently opened up to Adam Schefter on his podcast, “The Adam Schefter Podcast,” that he is often misidentified by fans for Rams running back Todd Gurley when he is out in LA.
“I hate getting called Todd, but you know it is what it is when you got another running back with dreads that plays up the street from you,” said Gordon.
He went on to state he is confused for either Gurley or Derrick Henry “very often” and even TMZ has made the mistake before too.
“I got in an argument with a girl because she thought I was Todd and I kept telling her no. She really thought I was Todd, she thought I was lying. I’m like this is getting out of control,” said Gordon.
Both running backs do share similarities in their career besides having dreads and playing in the City of Angels. In the 2015 NFL draft, Gordon was selected 15th overall, five spots after Gurley. They have both taken command of the starting jobs since they were rookies, leading their teams in rushing yards every year. Carrying the ball is not the only aspect they bring to their team’s respective offenses, as Gordon and Gurley led their teams in all-purpose yards last season as dual-threat weapons rushing and receiving.
The Chargers will be looking for Gordon to finish the 2018 season with similar production to what Gurley achieved in 2017. He led the NFL with 2,093 all-purpose yards, nearly stealing an MVP award from Tom Brady in the process. It’s not a stretch of the imagination to think Gordon could have similar stats at the end of the 2018 campaign. He had the 3rd most rushing attempts in 2017 behind guys like Le’Veon Bell and LeSean McCoy. A healthy offensive line will certainly help Gordon’s chances of seeing another 280+ carries. He might also see an uptick in receptions as well. Starting tight end Hunter Henry is out for the season with a torn ACL which could mean Gordon could replace him as Phillip Rivers safety blanket on underneath throws.
A distinct difference between Gordon and Gurley, however, is that the Rams gave Gurley a generous extension worth nearly $60 million in July. Gordon probably would not mind also having that in common with him as he is entering the 4th year on his rookie contract this season.