The Los Angeles Rams are looking to move on from high-priced running back Todd Gurley after the 25-year-old former All-Pro performer had a down 2019 season.
More than anything, Los Angeles is up against the cap. It has no desire to pay the remainder of the four-year, $57.5 million extension the team signed Gurley to back in 2018.
Currently talking to teams about a potential trade, there’s a number of squads that could view Gurley as a major upgrade. Despite his $17.25 million cap hit for the 2020 season, that list won’t be limited. After all, the former Georgia standout is averaging nearly 1,700 total yards and 18 touchdowns over the past three seasons.
Here, I break down the likeliest landing spots for this three-time Pro Bowler.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This team obviously comes to mind first after it shockingly landed six-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady in free agency. Players will want to follow Tom Terrific to Tampa. He’s a draw. Equally as important, Tampa Bay could use an upgrade at running back. While former second-round pick Ronald Jones exceeded expectations as a sophomore, there’s a need here. The idea of teaming Brady and Gurley up with 1,000-yard receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans has to be appealing to Bruce Arians squad.
Indianapolis Colts
Indy might have liked what it saw from Marlon Mack (1,173 total yards) as a third-year player. Even then, the decision to sign Philip Rivers made it clear that general manager Chris Ballard and Co. are going all in for the 2020 season. Trading a first-round pick for DeForest Buckner added more fuel to the fire. Gurley is an upgrade from Mack. He has a much better track record. Boasting two second-round picks, the Colts could afford to give up a mid-round selection or two for Gurley.
Miami Dolphins
Could Miami look to further upgrade its backfield after signing Jordan Howard to a two-year, $10 million contract? Stranger things have indeed happened. Whether it is Ryan Fitzpatrick, Jose Rosen or a rookie under center next season, the Dolphins need an improved rushing attack to be seen as relevant in the AFC East. Gurley would certainly provide that in more ways than one. Boasting five picks in the first two rounds of next month’s draft, the Fins also have the capital to make a trade for Gurley.
Atlanta Falcons
After having released Devonta Freeman, it seems to be pretty clear that the Falcons are in the market for a running back. Whether that’s through a trade or the upcoming draft remains to be seen. What I do know is that Atlanta’s offense would be a collection of scary talent with Gurley joining Matt Ryan in the backfield and star receiver Julio Jones catching passes on the outside. With just $2.2 million in cap space, Atlanta would have to work other things out. But this is a great on-field fit.