Melvin Gordon III: NFL Bio & FAQs

Melvin Gordon III Bio

Melvin Gordon III is a former NFL running back from Kenosha, Wisconsin, born April 13, 1993. Listed at 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, he starred at Wisconsin after playing at Bradford High School in Kenosha. Gordon’s 2014 season brought the Doak Walker Award, unanimous consensus first-team All-America recognition and a Heisman Trophy finalist finish, placing him among the defining Badgers runners of his era.

The San Diego Chargers selected Gordon with the 15th overall choice in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft after trading up for him. He later played for the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens. His last verified Ravens transaction was a January 19, 2024 practice-squad signing following a January 17 waiver; he later retired as a Charger in October 2025. Gordon was an explosive, long-striding runner who did his best work finding space on outside tracks, accelerating through openings and contributing as a receiver out of the backfield.

Position: RB
Height: 6-1
Weight: 215 lbs
College: Wisconsin
Experience: 9
Arm length: 32 1/2
Hand size: 9 3/4

Melvin Gordon III Questions & Answers

What position did Melvin Gordon III play?

Melvin Gordon III played running back.

How tall was Melvin Gordon III?

He was listed at 6 feet 1 inch and 215 pounds.

When was Melvin Gordon III born?

He was born on April 13, 1993, in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Where did Melvin Gordon III play college football?

He played college football at the University of Wisconsin.

When was Melvin Gordon III drafted?

The San Diego Chargers selected Melvin Gordon III in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft, 15th overall, after trading up from No. 17.

What was Melvin Gordon III's playing style?

He was characterized as an explosive, open-field runner with outstanding burst and a long stride. His strengths included attacking runs over the tackle or around the edge, while evaluators also noted the need to develop more feel between the tackles.