Chargers HC: 'No doubt' Gordon will be starting RB when ready

The Los Angeles Chargers won't be holding Melvin Gordon back.

The two-time Pro Bowl running back, who rejoined the Chargers this week after holding out since training camp, will vault to the top of the depth chart as soon as he's ready for a starter's workload, Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn said Thursday.

"No doubt. He's our starter and he was our starter for a reason," Lynn said.

During Gordon's three-game holdout, the team turned to Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson out of the backfield - a combination that's produced the 13th-best running game in the league with 111.7 yards on the ground per contest.

"I like the way Austin and J.J. have been working, they've done a heck of a job, they've both proved they can play in this league," Lynn added. "They'll still have a major role in this offense, don't get me wrong. But as soon as Melvin's ready, he'll go back to No. 1."

The 26-year-old Gordon hasn't participated in team drills since before July. Nonetheless, there's a chance he could suit up for Sunday's Week 4 game against the Miami Dolphins.

"Never say never, but I doubt he'll play this weekend, but he will practice today and tomorrow and we'll see," Lynn said.

This is the final year of Gordon's contract with the Chargers. He needed to report to the team by Nov. 29 to accrue a year of service and reach free agency after the season ends.