Melvin Gordon has mini-meltdown about being called “selfish”

On Monday, Melvin Gordon returned to Denver to take part in the Broncos mandatory three-day minicamp. It was newsworthy because the veteran running back had been mostly MIA during the offseason, choosing to work out elsewhere and skip voluntary OTAs at Dove Valley.

That fact ultimately led to some interesting conversations. On the air and via social media, people have debated Gordon’s decision.

It’s a fair discussion. After all, the 29-year-old running back is in a position battle with Javonte Williams. The Broncos are also learning a new system, getting adapted to a new head coach in Nathaniel Hackett and a new quarterback in Russell Wilson.

Most people think Gordon should be thrilled to be on the field, being a part of a better offense with a future Hall of Fame quarterback at the helm. They can’t understand why he’d skip “work” days.

There’s certainly an argument to be made on that front. And it’s hard not to use a certain word when trying to understand Gordon’s decision. Ultimately, it comes across as a selfish decision by the running back.

The conversation led to a story in the Denver Post. It had a headline that showed how polarizing Gordon is in the Mile High City.

Depending on whom you ask, Melvin Gordon is either an underrated, strong, confident, misunderstood fantasy-league workhorse or a selfish, me-first, fumble-prone headache. https://t.co/JyvgL921j8

— Denver Post Sports (@DPostSports) June 14, 2022

Obviously, the term “selfish” is a bit of an inflammatory word. But it’s not unfair. Gordon has repeatedly done things during his time in Denver to earn that moniker.

He skips OTAs. He ran out of bounds late in the 2020 season finale, hoping to get another chance at cracking the 1,000-yard barrier when running out the clock was in the team’s best interest. He posted to social media after Phillip Lindsay got hurt that he’d be able to play more free without competition in the backfield.

There’s evidence to suggest the “selfish” claim. Is it harsh? Sure. But it’d defendable.

Gordon, however, wasn’t having it. The running back reacted to the Post’s tweet.

Lmfaoooo go ask my teammates if I'm selfish gang !!!! I hate y'all folks I really do. And I mean that so much when I say it

— F L ⚡️ S H (@Melvingordon25) June 14, 2022

Whoa. If “selfish” is a hot button word, “hate” certainly is, as well. That’s a big, bold statement to throw out into public.

But Gordon wasn’t done. He added another tweet later on Tuesday night.

On god I can't wait to get back on that podium to talk !!! Omg I can't wait. Give y'all something to write about I promise

— F L ⚡️ S H (@Melvingordon25) June 15, 2022

Get your popcorn ready. The next time Gordon gets in front of the media, which have always been interesting, thought-provoking, sincere appearances in the past, should be filled with fireworks.

The running back wants to defend his reputation. That’s certainly his right. But it will be interesting to watch, that’s for sure.

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