Dissecting the St Louis Rams: Running Back

The St Louis Rams have had some very excellent growth in the running back position over the last few years. One by one, Fisher has been adding some much needed depth to replace Steven Jackson, one of the biggest work horses in the league. Last year, it seemed the Rams had found a viable option in Tre Mason, but after drafting Todd Gurley in this years draft with the tenth overall pick, it would seem even he might find his way down the depth chart.

Dec 28, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; St. Louis Rams running back Tre Mason (27) is defended by Seattle Seahawks safety Kam Chancellor (31) at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Tre Mason:

Mason was a very nice surprise. I loved the pick in the 2014 draft, as the Rams drafted Mason in the third round that year. The reason I loved the pick was because I loved his blend of bursting speed and ability to truck defenders despite his smaller size. The smaller size is what came back to haunt him in his rookie campaign. Mason didn’t even suit up until week five, for reasons that were pass-block related. (allegedly)

Mason has incredible burst once he finds his hole, although sometimes it takes him too long to locate said hole. He has a nice blend of power like Zac Stacy did, but with the speed to match it. His vision is better than average, but not great. Mason also has an outstanding ability to shed tackles, even from guys who are twice his stature. Mason suffers mildly from rookie jitters, as he was called for many penalties for excessive celebration in his shortened season.

Despite everything, Mason is of first string quality. He is an every down back that can easily rush for at least 1000 yards every season.

Dec 11, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams running back Benny Cunningham (36) runs the ball during the first half of a football game against the Arizona Cardinals at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kane-USA TODAY Sports

Benny Cunningham

Benny is a marvel when you think about what he can do despite his size. He is 5-10, 217 lbs which indicates a more balanced type back, with probably more power than speed. This is partially true, Benny has average speed. His acceleration is average at best also, but do not take him for granted. Cunningham makes up for his lack of speed with exceptional vision, being able to read blocks well before they happen and reading multiple defenders at once. Cunningham also has the quickest feet on the depth chart. His juking ability is good enough to return kicks, as he did so last season, averaging 27.5 yards a return, which is unreal for a power back with average speed.

Cunningham does have trouble holding on to the ball. His vision is great, but sometimes he gets caught being lazy with the ball and a defender will strip it out before he even has the chance to tuck it. Granted he doesn’t fumble all the time, but when he does, it’s in the red zone.

Cunningham plays hard, and is a viable backup option and has even proven his ability to return kicks.

Tre Watts

Watts made this roster for a reason. He displayed great ability to run the football in the 2014 preseason. Watts is another Cunningham type player, with a little more speed and way less vision. Watts plays extremely hard and despite only having seven carries in 2014, still managed to impress the coaching staff enough to stick around and play.

Aug 8, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams running back Chase Reynolds (34) is stopped by New Orleans Saints linebacker Todd Davis (95) during the second half at Edward Jones Dome. The Saints defeated the Rams 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Chase Reynolds:

Reynolds doesn’t actually run the ball, so not much to say. He is a special teams playmaker and is so good he has been kept on the roster for three entire seasons because of it.

May 1, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams first round draft pick Todd Gurley poses for a photo after a press conference at Rams Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Todd Gurley

Todd Gurley will be the starter when healthy. I have mentioned in many articles how great this kid can be. Gurley has the rare blend of speed and power, with good vision and has great hands for catching out of the backfield. Gurley even excelled at pass blocking, making him an all around threat no matter where he plays. The Rams hope Gurley will be their Marshawn Lynch, able to take control of an entire game.

Rams have so much depth at the running back position. With Gurley and Mason leading the charge, the Rams have found a rushing attack that could be in talks with the league’s best.

Official Grade: A+

Next: Player Spotlight: James Laurinaitis

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