What’s next for the LA Rams at the RB position?

With LA Rams star running back Cam Akers out for the year with a torn Achilles, and RB Darrell Henderson being questionable with health issues, the LA Rams could be in trouble at the running back position for the 2021/22 NFL season. Well, help is on the way.

This year the Rams drafted Maryland RB Jake Funk with the 233rd pick of the 2021 NFL Draft (seventh round). The 5-foot-10 speed back ran for 516 yards in just five games during the 2020 season, according to Sports Reference. The Rams also have running back Raymond Calais and Xavier Jones returning from 2020

Unfortunately, Calais only saw the field a few times last year, as they picked him up from the waiver wire of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as NFL teams pared down to the 53-man roster limits. However, when he was out there on kick returns, he definitely made an impact on the game, especially with his speed. Former-SMU running back Xavier Jones signed with the LA Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2020. He is also expected to step up as a potential running back for the team.

Even though Darrell Henderson has questions over his durability to handle the load over 17 regular-season games, the team does expect him to be ready to take the lead role for the 2021 NFL season. Not only are the Rams looking forward to Henderson’s big year, but he is also excited to get to work.

Henderson told reporters, “If it’s on me, then I’m ready for it,” after practice about two weeks ago.

Some free agency options

The LA Rams do have multiple options if they were to shop for a potential veteran running back. Three running backs that the Rams could make a push for are veterans Adrian Peterson, Todd Gurley II, and Le’Veon Bell.

Bringing in a veteran running back like any of the three listed will help develop the younger backs as they work harder to secure an important job on the team. The player that is currently the best fit for the Rams is Todd Gurley II. Due to Gurley being on the roster in his earlier years in the National Football League, he is somewhat familiar with the play-calling and/or schemes.

In my opinion, I think the Rams should look into adding Todd Gurley II as a potential running back option. He will be a great mentor for Henderson and hopefully boost his confidence, as he will be playing a huge role in the LA Rams offense this season due to Akers’ injury.