Melvin Gordon Reportedly Coming Closer to Ending His Holdout From Chargers

Hey, Austin Ekeler fantasy football owners, we hope you've enjoyed his voracious start to the season. Unfortunately, his insane level of production may be due to come back down to earth in the coming weeks.

According to reports, Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon is close to ending his holdout and plans on returning to the team sooner than later.

Chargers’ RB Melvin Gordon’s holdout could soon be coming to an end, though no final decisions have made when to report, per league sources. He had planned to return at some point in October, but could soon be moving up his reporting date.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 25, 2019

This news shouldn't be entirely shocking considering Gordon wasn't anticipated to holdout for the entire season. October has always been a target month for his return, and it looks like he could be moving his dates up a bit.

Gordon's initial goal was to sign a contract that would match the likes of stud running backs Todd Gurley and Le'Veon Bell. The Chargers didn't budge, and now here we are.

One note on #Chargers RB Melvin Gordon: He’s not expected to play this week even if he shows up tomorrow. So, the earliest he can play is next week, Oct. 6 vs. the #Broncos, if he shows up this week.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 25, 2019

With Gordon expected to return to the Chargers' facility, possibly as early as this week, the realistic expectation for him to take the field would be in Week 5 against the Broncos.

The Chargers are 1-2 in Gordon's stead, and they'll look to get back in the win column on Sunday against the Dolphins. With Gordon out, Ekeler has shined, rushing for two touchdowns while scoring four more through the air.

Still, that production may not be enough to warrant keeping Gordon on the sideline, especially considering the fifth-year back ran for 885 yards and scored 14 total touchdowns in 12 games last season.