Todd Gurley was one of the best NFL players just a few years ago, routinely earning All-Pro honors and dominating opponents. With training camp approaching, the 26-year-old running back remains a free agent.
Once one of the most explosive players in football, Gurley attempted to salvage his career this past season with the Atlanta Falcons. While it was evident knee injuries will keep him from reaching his previous heights, there is still enough talent in the tank.
Let’s examine the best landing spots for Gurley before training camp arrives.
Gurley signs with Lions
The Detroit Lions are going to be one of the worst teams in the NFL this fall, there’s no getting around that. For this rebuilding franchise to avoid blowouts, it needs to make the running attack its identity. That’s one reason why Anthony Lynn is calling plays, and the strength of this team is its offensive line.
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Gurley worked out for the Lions, and the franchise is still interested in signing him. Detroit obviously can’t offer the 6-foot-1 back the opportunity to be a workhorse or anything close to it for that matter. Gurley would come in as the No. 3 running back, working behind D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. But Swift might be used more as an offensive weapon in 2021, so there will be chances for Gurley to carry the football. Plus, he’d be a fantastic mentor for Swift.
Ravens depth chart welcomes another running back
If the Baltimore Ravens took a different approach offensively, they might not even call Gurley. But this isn’t a normal scheme. The Ravens ran the fewest passing plays ( 44.96%) in 2020 and it wasn’t really close compared to their peers. Even with the additions of Rashod Bateman and Sammy Watkins, this is going to be a run-first offense in 2021.
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Fantasy football managers, especially those with J.K. Dobbins, won’t like it, but this will be a committee backfield. Four running backs will likely be kept on the Ravens’ roster this season, and Gurley would be a welcome addition as depth. In a 17-game season, injuries will happen, and having a back such as Gurley makes sense for Baltimore.
Chargers sign Todd Gurley
Austin Ekeler is one of the most underrated players in the NFL and he will have a featured role next season. But we’ve all seen enough from him to know that this isn’t a running back whom you count on running between the tackles and he isn’t meant for 18-plus carries. This is where Gurley comes in.
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The Chargers’ offensive line will probably be the best thing for Gurley. It’s much better than the unit we saw in 2020, and having a back with Gurley’s vision would make things even easier for the linemen. Los Angeles could bring Gurley into training camp, allowing him to compete with Justin Jackson to be the Chargers’ No. 2 running back. if all goes well, Gurley and the Chargers will be in the NFL playoffs.
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