LA Rams have a major question at running back in 2017
Despite having Todd Gurley the Los Angels Rams have a major hole in their running back depth chart
Upon learning Lance Dunbar would miss significant time with a knee injury the through of who runs the Rams backfield creeps into the minds of NFL fans.
Surely Todd Gurley can rebound after a sophomore slump, right? The Rams fortified their offensive line by signing veteran left tackle Andrew Whitworth, but failed to draft any offensive linemen.
If Gurley’s struggles continue or his injury concerns become reality, who carries the ball for Los Angeles?
Rookie head coach Sean McVay says Malcolm Brown, an undrafted free agent out of Texas in 2015, is leading the way as the Rams backup running back.
Brown was one of the first players I ever officially scouted, and he failed to impress as a collegiate player early. Here’s a note I had from his days at Texas.
"While Brown is good at getting to the outside of the tackles, he usually takes the long route, rounding out his path and limiting his own production."
Behind Brown, who has 22 career carries, sits five undrafted free agents, three of them rookies.
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The Rams need to add a veteran presence to their backfield with Dunbar out indefinitely, and free agency may be the best route to take.
Despite being three years older than the Rams new head coach, DeAngelo Williams is an option in free agency. Former Packer James Starks is also available, as is Rashad Jennings, formerly of the New York Giants.
Perhaps the trade route will work out better for the Rams? New Orleans has a crowded backfield with Adrian Peterson signing as a free agent, which could lead to Mark Ingram’s departure.
Next: 2018 Mock Draft: Trades brew early
Regardless of how a veteran running back is acquired, the Rams need one to backup Gurley with Dunbar now gone. Expect them to make a move in the near future as camp cuts begin during the preseason.