4 candidates to be Christian McCaffrey’s backup in 2021
By Dean Jones
Todd Gurley
- 2020 team – Atlanta Falcons
It’s hard to believe Todd Gurley is still only 26-years-old. This is a player who seems to have been around forever and although his career has steadily regressed with every passing year, becoming a backup might be the best way to prolong his time in the NFL considering what we’ve seen of late.
Gurley was released by the Los Angeles Rams just one season removed from signing a big-money deal. He eventually signed for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency, where he gained 678 rushing yards and nine touchdowns from 195 carries.
It doesn’t appear as if Atlanta is too keen on giving Gurley an extension this offseason. So he might be willing to take a lesser deal providing the fit is right.
Slotting him behind Christian McCaffrey on the depth chart would give the Carolina Panthers a strong one-two punch who can complement each other well. The undisputed No. 1 can make the explosive plays all over the field, leaving Gurley tasked with gaining short yards in-between the tackles and in the red zone.
Gurley’s best days may be behind him. But putting the two-time All-Pro in a rotational role that will maximize his productivity could be a shrewd move by the Panthers if the price is right.