Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon left Sunday’s game early in the third quarter after suffering a knee injury, and it is one that is expected to keep him out multiple games.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that an MRI revealed Gordon has a Grade 2 MCL sprain, which typically requires a recovery period of several weeks.
#Chargers star RB Melvin Gordon was diagnosed with a grade 2 MCL sprain suffered in yesterday’s blowout win, sources say. He had his MRI last night. Gordon is out the next few weeks, but should be back before the end of the regular season if all goes well.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 26, 2018
Gordon was leg-whipped on an attempted reverse, and many thought the injury was severe given how brutal the play looked:
Video on #Chargers RB #MelvinGordon: worry for MCL injury with hit to the outside of the knee. Luckily his foot seems to escape making it a milder sprain.
Outlook is 1-3 weeks. MRI pending tomorrow to confirm pic.twitter.com/wBM0sfv1wG— The Jocs and Docs Show (@JocsandDocs) November 25, 2018
While a Grade 2 MCL sprain is not the worst news, it isn’t ideal for a player who was already dealing with knee and hamstring injuries heading into Week 12. Gordon has over 1,200 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns this season, so it goes without saying that he is a huge part of the Chargers’ offense. L.A. has an important Thursday night game against the AFC West-leading Kansas City Chiefs in Week 15, but even that might be too soon for Gordon to return.
