Assuming he passes through waivers, Baltimore could bring Gordon back on their practice squad. The Ravens signed Dalvin Cook ahead of the playoffs and appear content with him as at least their RB3. John Harbaugh told reporters the team views Cook as “potentially a very valuable weapon,” so he could wind up being more than a reserve running back in the playoffs.

This moves comes as no shock after Keaton Mitchell suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Gordon last played in Week 4 as a rotational piece in the Ravens’ backfield and likely will do so going forward. The Ravens also signed Jake Funk to their practice squad. Gus Edwards and Justice Hill should continue to lead the backfield, but Gordon is a veteran who can handle reps when needed.

Gus Edwards went down with a concussion in the second half and did not return, thrusting Melvin Gordon into the RB1 in Baltimore for the closing minutes of the game plus overtime. Gordon didn’t do much on the ground but did break off a pair of catches that went for more than 10 yards each. If Justice Hill and Gus Edwards are both out for Week 4, Gordon would get the start.

Gordon has a few things working against him when it comes to making the Ravens’ roster. At some point, J.K. Dobbins should return to the team, and rookie Keaton Mitchell has youth, explosiveness, and special teams capabilities — none of which Gordon possesses heading into his age-30 season. Gordon rushed six times for 16 yards in Saturday’s preseason win over the Eagles and also hauled in one catch for nine yards. He’s a good veteran presence as long as Dobbins is away but could become expendable in the coming weeks.