Melvin Gordon fantasy projection: Should I pick and start Ravens RB in Week 2?

J.K. Dobbins is out for the rest of the season with a torn Achilles, but the Baltimore Ravens need not worry. Melvin Gordon, who has been in their practice squad, is ready to step up, and his comeback begins in Week 2.

Head coach John Harbaugh said as much on Monday:

"Melvin, he’s here for a reason. Certainly didn’t expect it to be this quick, but that’s why he’s here. ... He’s a heck of a talented guy. You saw him in the preseason. He’s a proven back, so I’m very, very glad that he’s here.”

So, is Gordon worth the investment in fantasy football? Ahead of his projected return, here is his fantasy projection.

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Melvin Gordon with the Kansas City Chiefs

In 2022, Melvin Gordon became the subject of mockery after he fumbled just before halftime of the Denver Broncos' Week 11 game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

It was his fifth of the season (an earlier one against the Raiders was returned for a touchdown), and he was subsequently released. Before his axing, he had amassed 318 yards and two touchdowns on 90 carries.

Gordon soon wound up on the Kansas City Chiefs' practice squad, winning a Super Bowl title. During the 2023 offseason, he joined the Baltimore Ravens. He was waived during roster cuts but was brought back as a practice player.

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Melvin Gordon 2023 Fantasy Outlook: Is Ravens RB a good fantasy pick in 2023?

Melvin Gordon rushing against the Washington Commanders during the preseason

Melvin Gordon's last game was almost a year ago. Based on his 2022 performances, it's safe to say that his struggles at maintaining the ball are not a one-time thing. As a rookie, he fumbled six times (four of them lost) and has had at least one since.

The only saving grace for the Ravens is that they still have a pair of credible running backs to pick up the slack: Gus Edwards and Justice Hill.

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Should I start Melvin Gordon in 2023?

Melvin Gordon after fumbling against the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022

The answer here may be obvious - no; but being on the practice squad of two elite teams may have improved Melvin Gordon's ability to keep the ball.

However, Sportskeeda's Start/Sit Optimizer recommends starting Edwards over him:

A comparison of the Baltimore Ravens running backs with J.K. Dobbins ruled out

Hence, fantasy footballers would be wise to hold off on playing Gordon until he has taken the field and shown his wares.