Todd Gurley, 2018 OPOY, Cut by Los Angeles Rams

Former Offensive Player of the Year Todd Gurley is a free agent after the Rams finally gave up on him.

The Pro Bowl running back looked destined for greatness when he burst onto the scene. Todd Gurley was drafted by the Rams in 2015, and quickly became the face of the franchise.

Todd Gurley was rewarded for his explosive performances with a four-year, $57.5 million contract extension in 2018. Shortly after he rushed for 1,251 yards with 17 touchdowns, but it would be the last time we saw Gurley at his best. 

His knee problems began to surface during the Rams’ postseason run towards Super Bowl LIII.

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Heading into 2019, coach Sean McVay insisted that all was well with Gurley. However, it was reported that his snaps were cut for stretches. When Gurley did get onto the field, he was a shadow of his dynamic self.

Ultimately, the Rams made the call before another $10.5 million of his contract became guaranteed at 4pm on Thursday.

“I would like to thank Todd for his many contributions to the Rams, on and off the field, since I have been here,” Sean McVay said.

“He has meant a lot to my growth as a coach and leader and he will always be remembered as one of the all-time great Rams. I wish him nothing but the best.”

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Somewhat emblematic of his fall from grace is the fact that Gurley now finds himself in an overcrowded RB market. As well as that, the league doesn’t value running backs like it used to. 

Most teams will go for the cheaper option rather than paying for someone with the name recognition that Gurley has. 

What the team who signs Gurley will get is a “one of a kind talent” and “one of the greatest competitors in this league,” according to Rams GM Les Snead.

“He served as a great teammate to his fellow players and ambassador for our organization, and those traits speak volumes to who he is as a human being,” Snead said.