While the majority of running backs have sat on the free-agent market without generating much interest, Todd Gurley only needed less than 24 hours to find a new home after being released by the Los Angeles Rams.
As first reported by Jordan Schultz and confirmed by Ian Rapoport, Gurley is signing with the Atlanta Falcons, returning to the state where he played his college football. He follows the same path Steven Jackson took after leaving the Rams, also joining the Falcons.
According to Rapoport, it’s a one-year deal.
Todd Gurley has already landed home: The former #Rams star is signing a 1-year deal with the #Falcons, source says (as @Schultz_Report reported). Atlanta had some talks with the #Rams about trading for the former UGA RB before he was released.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 20, 2020
Schultz added that Gurley’s deal with the Falcons is pending a physical, which is an important designation. Gurley has had knee issues in his career and Atlanta will need him to pass a physical before signing on the dotted line.
With the coronavirus preventing teams from bringing players into their facilities for visits or physicals, it could be a while before Gurley signs his contract with the Falcons. But assuming there are no hiccups, he’ll be in Atlanta next season.
The Falcons all but confirmed the news, tweeting “WE GOT HIM” on Friday morning.
WE GOT HIM. pic.twitter.com/N5aGYeYoFJ
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) March 20, 2020
The Falcons are not on the Rams’ schedule in 2020, so the only way Gurley will face his former team is if both teams make the playoffs and get seeded against each other.
Last season, Gurley rushed for 857 yards and 12 touchdowns with the Rams. In Atlanta, he’ll likely be the feature back after the Falcons cut ties with former Pro Bowler Devonta Freeman.
Gurley was born in Baltimore but he grew up in North Carolina and went to the University of Georgia. He spends time on the East Coast during the offseason, and was even given the key to Edgecombe County in North Carolina for the work he does in the community.
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