The Facts: When NFL free agency opens March 11, Gordon will have a rooting interest. If prized free agent Le’Veon Bell is able to set a new benchmark for running back salaries, that likely means more money for Gordon’s looming extension. “I’m waiting. I’m sitting back waiting, waiting on Bell,” Gordon said Wednesday. “I’m glad it’s changing because we (running backs) were getting devalued for a little bit. But me, David Johnson, Todd Gurley, I can go down a whole list, Bell, you name it, ‘Zeke,’ just game-changers, Alvin Kamara, all those guys.”
Diehards Line:Gordon and the Chargers have expressed optimism on agreeing to a new contract this offseason. Gordon’s rookie deal expires after the 2019 season. He’s set to make $5.6 million for the upcoming season. “I think it’s something we’ll definitely look at,” Chargers GM Tom Telesco said Jan. 17 about Gordon’s contract situation. “He’s a huge part of our offense. He’s a warrior for us, he does all the little things to be a great player. All the little things you need. I love having him. We’re happy we have him. ...” Gurley and Johnson didn’t wait for Bell to sign on the dotted line. Bell sat out the 2018 season after declining to play under the franchise tag for the Pittsburgh Steelers that would have paid him $14.54 million. Gurley signed a four-year, $57 million extension with the Rams in July that will pay him an annual average salary of $14.37 million. Johnson agreed to a three-year, $39 million extension with the Arizona Cardinals in September that will give him an annual average of $13 million. By waiting, Gordon’s new deal could surpass Gurley and Johnson, depending on what happens with Bell. If Bell doesn’t drastically surpass the deals of Gurley and Johnson, Gordon’s extension could turn tricky. ... We'll be watching for more.