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Rams add top running back, select Todd Gurley in 1st round

Dennis Wierzbicki / USA TODAY Sports

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The St. Louis Rams made running back Todd Gurley out of Georgia the first running back selected in the first round since 2012, grabbing him with the 10th overall pick in the draft.

One of the most complete running back prospects to make the transition to the NFL since Adrian Peterson, Gurley's recovery from a torn ACL wasn't enough to keep him out of the top 10.

When healthy, the Georgia product should be quick to take over as the feature back in the Rams offense, giving the club the kind of productive running game it's struggled to find in recent seasons.

Already having some intriguing talent at the position, the Rams can be patient with Gurley's recovery and ensure he's 100 percent healthy before he takes the field in the NFL.

Todd Gurley Bio

Position: RB
School: Georgia
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-1
Weight: 222 lbs.
Age: 20

Combine Results

Event Result
Bench Press 17 reps

*Gurley was unable to participate in the majority of drills at the NFL Scouting Combine as he recovers from a torn ACL.

Strengths

  • A foundation running back who possesses an ideal combination of short-area quickness, high-end speed and pile-pushing power.
  • Cuts sharply and accelerates to top speed quickly. Little wasted movement.
  • Good vision and decision-making. Sees the hole and hits it.
  • Comfortable as a receiver.
  • Willing blocker with potential to become an excellent pass protector.
  • Rarely fumbles.

Weaknesses

  • Needs to polish up his route-running at the next level. Can become complacent at times while running intermediate patterns, and relies too much on his athleticism.
  • Could improve his run blocking and add some bulk. Won't easily be able to out-muscle defensive backs in the pros.
  • Needs to improve his concentration, as drops were a problem throughout his time at Alabama.

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