The Sports Xchange

Rookie running back Melvin Gordon is not expected to play in the San Diego Chargers’ preseason game in Arizona on Saturday.

Gordon, the Chargers’ first-round pick, has a minor ankle injury that forced him to sit out a practice this week. After rushing six times for 11 yards in the preseason opener vs. the Dallas Cowboys, Gordon said he needed to be more “decisive” in his running.

Also expected to sit out vs. the Cardinals on Saturday are cornerback Jason Verrett, rookie linebacker Denzel Perryman and cornerback Stevie Williams, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

“We’re going to look at what’s the best interest of some players,” coach Mike McCoy said. “We’ll hold some guys out that normally would play. But that’s my job and the staff’s job. We’re looking to get all 53 healthy for the opener. That’s the big picture.”