Los Angeles Rams Player Profile: Running Back Benny Cunningham

With all of the uncertainty surrounding Tre Mason, Benny Cunningham has the chance to emerge as a backup for the Los Angeles Rams in 2016.

After an impressive rookie season that consisted of 1,106 rushing yards to go along with 10 touchdowns, the Los Angeles Rams have high expectations for Todd Gurley heading into his second season. The former Georgia star finds himself in the perfect position to be in contention for the rushing title this season, but one of the most interesting position battles heading into training camp will be which player steps up as the No. 2 running back behind Gurley.

Insert Benny Cunningham.

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In his first three seasons with the Rams, Cunningham has seem limited action on the football field when considering he’s only rushed for 647 yards with four touchdowns, but thing seem different heading into 2016. While Gurley is the clear starter at running back, the backup situation is certainly interesting with all of the uncertainty surrounding Tre Mason.

Not only is Mason coming off a very disappointing 2015 season in which he averaged just 2.8 yards per carry, but he’s struggled to stay out of trouble with the law this offseason as well. If Los Angeles realizes Mason is no longer worth their time and decides to part ways with the former Auburn star, it would open the door even more for Cunningham as the backup running back.

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Plus, it should also be noted that Cunningham has been effective in the passing game as well after recording 71 receptions over the last two seasons–which makes him an even more attractive option to be the backup to Gurley.