Chargers HC: Melvin Gordon 'our starter' when he returns

When Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon returns to the field in Week 5, Los Angeles Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn made it clear he will be the team’s starting running back.

Lynn spoke with reporters on Thursday after Gordon ended his holdout and returned to practice with the team as part of its preparation for their Week 4 matchup.

Chargers HC Anthony Lynn on Melvin Gordon's role: "He's our starter. No doubt. He was our starter for a reason… as soon as Melvin's ready, he'll go back. He'll go back to number one."

Lynn did praise Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson's work and says they'll have a role still.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 26, 2019

While Gordon will not be able to take the field for Los Angeles this week against the Miami Dolphins, Lynn made it clear that Gordon will be this team’s No. 1 running back when he is ready to hit the field.

Gordon missed the first three weeks of the season as part of his holdout and saw running backs Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson thrive in his absence. Ekeler racked up 368 total yards and four total touchdowns on 57 touches, while Jackson averaged 7.9 yards per carry and rushed for 142 yards.

Lynn indicated both players will still have a role in the offense even with Gordon’s return. However, the Chargers are likely to get the most out of Gordon in his final year with the team.