Rams News: Todd Gurley shares candid insights on his diminished role with the Rams

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Todd Gurley, once the centerpiece of the Los Angeles Rams' offense, has opened up about his time with the team. Gurley, who last played in the NFL in 2020, had a stellar start to his career, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2015 with 1,106 rushing yards.

After a less impressive 2016 season, Gurley bounced back in 2017 and 2018, leading the league in rushing touchdowns both years and earning first-team All-Pro honors. In 2017, he amassed over 2,000 scrimmage yards and was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. The following year, he continued his dominance with 1,251 rushing yards and over 20 touchdowns.

Despite his success, Gurley's role diminished during the Rams' 2018 playoff run. The team brought in running back C.J. Anderson late in the season, and Anderson ended up getting more carries and touches than Gurley in key playoff games. In the NFC Championship Game, Gurley had just four carries, and he only saw 10 carries in the Super Bowl.

“It wasn’t like, ‘(expletive) ‘em,’ but it was like, ‘damn,’” Gurley said of his minimal role in the 2018 playoffs on The 25 10 Show. “Still trying to be the team guy, not trying to really trip. But, too, I’m just like, ‘Y’all (expletive) want to pay me to sit down? All right, bro. So be it.’"

This reduced role was puzzling, especially given Gurley's status as one of the NFL's top offensive threats. Though he tried to maintain a team-first attitude, it was clear that the decision to limit his involvement was confusing and frustrating.

Gurley played one more season with the Rams before being released, marking an unceremonious end to his time with the team.