Melvin Gordon out for crucial TNF clash with Chiefs

Los Angeles Chargers star running back Melvin Gordon won't play Thursday against the Kansas City Chiefs after testing his knee pre-game, head coach Anthony Lynn told Omar Ruiz of NFL Network.

Gordon has missed the last two games with the injury.

Primary backup Austin Ekeler had already been ruled out of the crucial AFC West clash, so the Chargers will likely have to rely heavily on rookie Justin Jackson, who has just 27 carries this season.

Gordon has excelled this year when he's been healthy, averaging a career-high 5.2 yards per carry and scoring 13 total touchdowns.

The Chargers must win the second matchup of the year against the Chiefs to stay in contention for the division title.