Deep RB talent in 2020 NFL Draft benefits LA Rams off-season

The LA Rams shopping list for the 2020 NFL Draft may target a deep running back class. In fact, the talent level of running backs this year may compel Rams to shop this season

The LA Rams need to make changes to their team to avoid another “almost” season in 2020.  One such area in need of overhaul is the running game. Or rather, the lack of a dominating running game in 2020.  Yes, we’ve covered this topic from several angles, including offensive line, to giving far more share of the touches to RB Darrell Henderson, from playing more of RB Malcolm Brown or trading him, to a 5 step guide to improve the overall running game for the team in 2020. But the Rams offense comes down to either RB Todd Gurley, or whomever takes over for Gurley going forward.

Right now, that is what the player and team are planning to discus in the near future when they meet. If those discussions go well, the Rams may have nearly $10 million additional salary cap dollars to spend on 2020 free agents.  If those discussions do not go well, the Rams may place Gurley on the trading block. Gurley’s future has been a hot topic among NFL Rumors from the moment the 2019 season ended for the team.  But why now?

Well, Gurley’s trade value may be significantly higher for other teams than that of the LA Rams right now.  If traded, the only part of Gurley’s salary cap for 2020 to go with him would be his salary plus roster bonus.  The Rams would still be on the hook for any monies paid but not realized.  Translated?  That’s $30 million savings over the next four seasons, including nearly $5 million cap savings this year.

For any other NFL team, Gurley brings a veteran RB who scores in both the passing and running game, and comes at a much more reasonable average of $11 million per year.  Which NFL Teams may want to pick up a still productive running back? Well our colleagues over at LASportsHub.com have already identified three NFL teams who could trade for Gurley.