Herschel Walker is among the most explosive running backs in NFL history, so when the Hall of Famer says something, we should pay attention.
ESPN’s Nick Wagoner notes Walker said St. Louis Rams running back Gurley is a throwback-type running back who can do everything.
“You see running backs today go in for first down but not on second down, not on third down. Todd can play every down if he has to. He can play on third down. He can line up in the slot. He can catch the ball. That’s what made him special is he’s a guy that the coach can use in a lot of different places.”
Walker, who like Gurley attended Georgia, said the impressive part about the rookie’s success is how it’s come so quickly after an ACL tear that ended his college career.
“Think about this young man just coming off of injury not long ago, and now he’s out doing the things he’s doing.”
St. Louis eased him into the starting lineup, but it hasn’t taken Gurley much time to assert himself as an elite runner—and even receive attention as the NFL’s No. 1 back.
Gurley has tallied at least 128 yards in each of his four games, averaging no worse than 5.3 yards per attempt. The Rams won three of those outings, and if it wasn’t for red-zone turnovers could’ve won the fourth.
As long as St. Louis feeds Gurley the ball around 20 times per game and keeps him involved in various ways, the team should continue its rise toward yearly playoff contention.