Oakland Raiders Versus The AFC West: Running Backs

May 26, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Branden Oliver (43) participates in a drill during organized team activities at Charger Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

San Diego Chargers

Losing Ryan Matthews – who signed on in Philadelphia as a free agent – was a pretty big blow for the Chargers. Though he had some trouble staying healthy over the course of his time in San Diego, when he managed to stay on the field, he was a pretty productive back.

Matthews twice broke 1,000 yards for the Chargers, most recently in 2013, rushed for better than 4,000 yards, and 23 scores. He also accumulated a 4.4 yards per carry.

But the Chargers believe they found the perfect replacement for Matthews in the draft – Melvin Gordon out of Wisconsin.

Gordon had a pretty stellar career as a Badger, racking up 4,915 yards in his four seasons, including an absolutely ridiculous 2,587 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns in his senior season. There were points last season when Gordon made it look too incredibly easy.

Which is what led the Chargers to trade up to get him.

But as there is with any rookie, there is going to be a period of adjustment from college to the pros. Gordon is not going to be rushing for 2,500 yards this season. He’d be incredibly fortunate to break 1,000 yards – spoiler alert, he probably won’t.

The Chargers are going to have some issues with their running game this season. Most especially given the fact that they are entrusting their fortunes on the ground to a rookie – even one as talented as Gordon.

Next: Number Three