The Denver Broncos made three transactions that vastly improved their offense.
First, they hired former Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett as their head coach, replacing the defensive-minded Vic Fangio.
Second, they traded for Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson, giving them a better option under center.
Finally, they brought back Melvin Gordon on a one-year deal that could earn him up to $5 million.
His return fortifies the Broncos’ backfield rotation with Javonte Williams, who had 903 yards and four touchdowns in 2021.
Meanwhile, Gordon finished with 918 yards and eight touchdowns last season.
Also, as the NFL on CBS Twitter account pointed out, his 2021 stats put him in great company.
Broncos are re-signing Melvin Gordon to a 1 year deal (per @RapSheet)
The only RBs in NFL history with 7+ rush TD in 6 consecutive seasons:
▪️Jim Brown
▪️Ladainian Tomlinson
▪️Emmitt Smith
▪️Adrian Peterson
▪️Shaun Alexander
▪️Melvin Gordon**Active Streak pic.twitter.com/BK4FUgzJGa
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) April 27, 2022
They shared that Gordon is only one of six running backs in NFL history with at least seven rushing touchdowns for six consecutive seasons.
The former Wisconsin standout could extend his streak if he hits that magic number again in 2022.
Gordon joins Hall of Famers Jim Brown, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Emmitt Smith on that list.
Adrian Peterson will be a surefire Hall of Famer, while Shaun Alexander is the 2005 NFL Most Valuable Player.
Broncos Will Stampede Through The Opposition
Re-signing Gordon makes Denver more challenging to stop.
They now have a Super Bowl-winning quarterback who is one of the steadiest players over the past decade.
He can maximize the talent of his stellar receiving corps featuring Jerry Jeudy, Tim Patrick, and Courtland Sutton.
Meanwhile, Gordon and Williams will pound the rock on the ground to wear down opposing defenses.
This collection of talent should bring the Broncos back to the AFC playoffs for the first time since they won Super Bowl 50.
Anything less than that result would be a disappointment for such a talented squad.
NEXT: Russell Wilson Reacts To Broncos Retaining A Backfield Star