Badger Bits: Melvin Gordon says all the right things at the NFL Combine

Bob McGinn's article shines light on an "effervescent, direct, determined and refreshingly realistic" Gordon a day before performing in front of hundreds of NFL personnel.

By Max Bayer Feb 21, 2015, 8:20am CST

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Former Wisconsin Badgers running back Melvin Gordon fielded questions from the media during the NFL Combine on Thursday in Indianapolis. His answers reminded everyone that while you might be able to argue his pros and cons as a running back, as noted in this article by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Bob McGinn, you'd be hard pressed to fine a better locker room presence. Here are some of the key takeaways from the press conference:

"Jamaal Charles is his own man, a phenomenal player in the NFL," Gordon said. "We are similar but he's got that little burst. I don't think I have that."

As the draft approaches, Gordon has drawn many comparisons, none more common than the former Texas and current Kansas City Chiefs running back. While Gordon is humbled be thought of in the same realm, he recognizes that there are key differences between his game and that of Charles. He wants to make sure teams know that he is his own player, not trying to resemble anyone or copy one's success. He is going to make a difference on a team with his own style of play.

"I wanted to be more of a complete running back. ...I didn't need James (White) or Montee (Ball) to go out there and pass protect," he said. "I wasn't perfect. Not everyone is. You make some mistakes, but they can count on me."

Any running back who understands the importance of pass protection and is willing to make it a focal point of his training understands what it truly means to be successful in the NFL. It's not just about who can burst away for the 60-yard runs, its about who knows how to pass protect on a critical 3rd-and-4, tuck your head and bulldoze on a 4th-and-1, or run the correct screen pattern to lure the defense. Gordon has the ability to excel in all these aspects at the NFL level, and if you couple that with his natural charisma and good temperament, I see no reason why he shouldn't be considered for a first round pick.

(Editor's note: Gordon bench pressed 225 pounds 19 times on Friday, putting him tied at 15th-best amongst running backs)