Los Angeles Rams: 5 trade targets prior to NFL trade deadline
By Ian Higgins
Jalen Richard, Running Back, Oakland Raiders
Behind Todd Gurley, the current running back depth chart hosts Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson Jr. The nature of McVay’s offense relies heavily upon Gurley being able to provide consistent, effective carries to set up the rest of the offense.
This continuous wear and tear on a running back can limit longevity as well as short-term performance. Neither of these players provides enough talent to give Gurley extended breaks during a drive but within the NFL trade bargain bin, a scheme-altering back could be the answer.
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Jalen Richard ended 2018 with 68 receptions on 81 targets for 607 total yards through the air in Oakland. For comparison, in 2018 Richard only had 55 carries for 259 rushing yards. Bringing in Richard could bring a new dimension to this Los Angeles Rams offense that has been needed for a long time.
New England has managed its stable of running backs over the past years through specialization rather than a single star to carry the whole load. This load-management system not only allows for two distinct schemes with different backfields but also reduces the overall physical toll of the position throughout a season.
By splicing in James White and Sony Michel at different points throughout a game or drive, New England can give defenses two entirely different offenses from a power running game to a quick-hitting west coast offense.
If the Los Angeles Rams can replicate what New England has done with their backfield, but with one of the best running backs in football, not only would Gurley’s workload be significantly diminished, but a new fold into McVay’s game planning can be uncovered.