Falcons demote All-Pro running back Todd Gurley to backup role
Todd Gurley is no longer the Atlanta Falcons starting running back.
Falcons interim head coach Raheem Morris said Monday that Ito Smith is now the team's lead rusher while Gurley will be used as the second back, according to team reporter Kelsey Conway.
The Athletic's Tori McElhaney reports Morris said Smith's performance was the main reason behind the change. Gurley's knee issues also don't help his case.
Gurley signed a one-year, $5.5 million deal with Atlanta after being released by the Los Angeles Rams during the offseason. The three-time Pro Bowler has 182 carries for 644 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games this season, which is the lowest output of his career.
Smith, meanwhile, has seen his playing time increase each week since Week 9. The 25-year-old has 50 carries for 213 yards and one touchdown on the season.
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