The Denver Broncos announced on Monday that they have waived veteran running back Melvin Gordon; if Gordon goes unclaimed on waivers, he will then become a free agent.

Gordon has struggled to protect the ball throughout the season, most recently during the Broncos overtime loss to the LA Raiders on Sunday. During the first half, Gordon took a third-and-1 carry from the Las Vegas 5-yard line up the right side and fumbled, which was recovered by Denver behind the line of scrimmage, making it fourth down, with the ensuing field goal attempt was blocked. Speaking on Gordon, Head coach Nathaniel Hackett said after the game: “In that situation, he’s got to be smart with it and he can’t fumble. He knows that. You just can’t do that. It’s unacceptable. We’ve got to find a way to get the ball in the end zone.”

Gordon has been with the Broncos since 2020 when he signed a two-year deal with that club that spring. Before this season, he has rushed for at least 900 yards and eight touchdowns. Denver started the 2022 season with Gordon as their backup running back to Javonte Williams, but after Williams suffered a season-ending knee injury, Gordon took on the starting role in Week 5. Gordon has underperformed, averaging just 3.4 yards per carry and totaled 179 yards total on the ground. He’s also caught 17 passes for 174 yards. Through 10 games played, Gordon has fumbled five times (two lost).

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