One of the biggest surprises on the 2015 NFL Draft was the St. Louis Rams taking Todd Gurley with the 10th overall pick in the first round. It was the first time since 2012 that a running back was drafted in the first-round -- and it was a running back coming off an ACL tear just months prior.
There is no doubting Gurley’s immense physical talents. But there is room to doubt what his status will be come Week 1 of the regular season. While there has been no solid information about Gurley potentially starting the season on the PUP list, it’s still a distinct possibility.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Rams’ offensive line ranked 23rd in run blocking last season, and little was done to address the issue during the offseason.
Oh yeah, and there’s still a guy on the roster named Tre Mason who led the team in rushing last season.
Coming off the board as the RB25 in the mid-fifth round would be fine if we knew Gurley would be ready Week 1, but since we don’t, it’s fair to temper expectations for this phenom’s rookie campaign.