Still 'focal point' of offense

Coach Sean McVay said on The Rich Eisen Show that he expects Gurley (knee) "to be the focal point" of the Rams offense in 2019 and beyond.

Analysis: After lingering issues with Gurley's left knee kept him sidelined in Weeks 16 and 17 and contained him to 16 combined touches between the NFC Championship Game and Super Bowl LIII, his health has been the talk of the Rams' offseason to date. Along the way, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reported Gurley potentially is dealing with arthritis in that knee. The Rams opted to move on from C.J. Anderson and stick with the previous status quo of Malcolm Brown as Gurley's primary backup, which seems to…read more

Expected to be ready for OTAs

Gurley (knee) is expected to be available for the start of the Rams' offseason program April 15, Gary Klein and Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times report.

Analysis: The status of Gurley's left knee will probably be the biggest story line surrounding the Rams' offseason and that narrative appears to be starting on a positive note. Head coach Sean McVay declined to comment much on the subject at this week's NFL owner's meetings and specifically didn't touch on whether Gurley is dealing with arthritis or not, but he did mention the team has a plan in place to manage the running back's health going forward. Joining him in offseason workouts will be Malcolm…read more

Possible arthritis in knee

Gurley has arthritis in his left knee, a source has told Jeff Howe of The Athletic.

Analysis: This comes on top of coach Sean McVay saying Friday his star running back may research stem cell treatment as an option to help the problematic left knee. At this point, surgery doesn't seem to be in the cards for Gurley, but it's definitely a problem and explains his modest usage of 30 total carries during the team's three playoff games, all of which were close enough where the early season version of Gurley would have been used significantly more. The health of Gurley's knee and possible…read more

Could get stem cell treatment

Gurley may research stem cell treatment as an option to help his problematic left knee, John Breech of CBS Sports reports. "As far as the stem cells, that's not something that's been communicated to me, but there is a program," Rams coach Sean McVay said. "We've got these doctors and there's always new methods of staying as up-to-date as you can, and number one, the player has to feel good about it. Todd does such a good job of doing his own research and knowing what are the things [he] can do."

Analysis: Even with 1,831 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns in 14 regular-season games, the biggest story of Gurley's 2018 campaign was a limited workload during the playoffs. Both player and team have insisted he was healthy, but it's clear the 24-year-old wasn't the best version of himself in January and February. His recent issue may be related to the ACL tear he suffered in the same knee as a junior at the University of Georgia in 2014, though Gurley has otherwise been quite durable through four NFL…read more

Coach takes blame for lack of usage

Coach Sean McVay maintained Thursday that Gurley (knee) was healthy during the Rams' Super Bowl loss to the Patriots and blamed himself for not getting the back as involved as he could have been, Mike Jones of USA Today reports.

Analysis: There have been conflicting reports back and forth regarding Gurley and a potential knee injury ever since he was limited to just 10 carries in the Super Bowl, but in general, the Rams have maintained the 24-year-old was fit to play. An organization would be highly unlikely to admit otherwise, but McVay did acknowledge that there was a level of wear and tear that came into play. That makes sense considering Gurley was on pace for a career high in carries, registering 256 through just 14 games.…read more

Perhaps more injured than reported

Teammate C.J. Anderson believes Gurley's late-season knee injury was "a little bit more than what everybody in the building thought, including himself," Cameron DaSilva of USA Today reports. "I would say sprained knee," Anderson said, when asked to describe Gurley's setback. "Obviously, it's the same knee injury he's had before in his career. Obviously I had surgery on my meniscus and once you have a knee, you always have a knee."

Analysis: Gurley and coach Sean McVay both insisted the 24-year-old was healthy throughout the playoffs, while running backs coach Skip Peete suggested Gurley technically was healthy but never regained his peak conditioning after missing Weeks 16 and 17. It's interesting to hear Anderson sound so skeptical about Gurley's health, especially because his willingness to talk about the injury might be taken as a hint he doesn't expect to re-sign with Los Angeles. The controversy over Gurley's playoff role may…read more

Still considered healthy

Coach Sean McVay said he isn't aware of Gurley needing any medical procedures during the offseason, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: McVay acknowledged he hasn't spoken with the team's training staff since Gurley had his season-end physical exam Tuesday. It's possible that meeting brings something to light, but for now McVay is sticking with the party line that he simply thought a mixture of Gurley and C.J. Anderson gave the Rams their best to chance to win during the playoffs. Gurley also maintains he made a full recovery from his late-season knee injury prior to the playoffs. Running backs coach Skip Peete may have…read more

Stifled in Super Bowl loss

Gurley carried 10 times for 35 yards and caught his only target for a one-yard loss during Sunday's 13-3 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: Gurley out-touched C.J. Anderson in this one, but he did little with his opportunities en route to just 3.5 yards per carry. So ends what was a bizarre postseason for the star back, who excelled against the Cowboys before totaling just 14 carries for 45 yards over the final two games. Gurley enjoyed an otherworldly regular season in which he piled up 1,831 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns, making him an elite fantasy option heading into the 2019 campaign. However, given the way his postseason…read more

Still expected to share carries

Gurley is expected to continue splitting carries with C.J. Anderson during the Super Bowl, NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: There's been some chatter about Gurley potentially returning to his workhorse role with two weeks to recover after the last game -- a 26-23 win over the Saints in which Anderson held a 37-32 advantage for snaps and a 16-4 edge for carries. The split should tilt back toward Gurley against the Patriots, but that doesn't mean he'll recoup the high-usage role he handled Weeks 1-15 of the regular season. Rams running backs coach Skip Peete recently revealed that the team talked to Gurley before the…read more

Could be busy in Super Bowl

Coach Sean McVay said Tuesday that Gurley will be a big part of the Super Bowl, Albert Breer of TheMMQB.com reports.

Analysis: Gurley blamed performance rather than health for his limited role in the NFC Championship Game, noting that he was "sorry as hell" early in the contest. Of course, fellow running back C.J. Anderson didn't exactly tear it up against a tough New Orleans front, picking up 44 yards on 16 carries to end a three-game streak with triple-digit yardage and at least 5.3 YPC. Gurley is a good bet to see an uptick from his five touches in the NFCCG, but that doesn't mean he'll push Anderson out of the…read more

Blames performance, not injury

Gurley suggested health wasn't a factor in his limited role during Sunday's 26-23 win over the Rams, instead blaming his poor performance early in the game, ESPN.com's Lindsey Thiry reports. "I was sorry as hell today," Gurley said after the game. "I was sorry. So, C.J. did his thing and the whole team did its thing."

Analysis: Gurley lost four yards on his first carry and then dropped a pass into a defender's hands for an interception on the next snap. C.J. Anderson got most of the work from that point forward, ultimately finishing with a 37-32 snap advantage and a 16-4 edge for carries. Gurley did have a six-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter and a three-yard reception in the final minute of regulation, so it wasn't a case of being benched. Gurley's role will be one of the major storylines heading into the…read more

Shockingly limited in big win

Gurley rushed just four times for 10 yards and a touchdown and brought in one of three targets for 10 yards during the Rams' 26-23 overtime win over the Saints in Sunday's NFC Championship Game. In his post-game news conference, head coach Sean McVay indicated that the decision to go with C.J. Anderson as his lead back was strictly "because of the flow of the game," Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Throughout the game, reports indicated there was nothing physically wrong with Gurley, a claim seemingly borne out by the fact that he did continue to rotate in occasionally during the second half. However, it was Anderson who handled the bulk of the work -- including on the game-clinching drive in overtime -- logging 11 more total touches from scrimmage than Gurley. If McVay's postgame comments are to be taken at face value, it would seem that Gurley would have a chance to resume lead-back…read more

Avoids injury report Wednesday

Gurley (knee) wasn't listed on Wednesday's injury report, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: During media availability Wednesday, coach Sean McVay said Gurley's left knee is "fine," but the running back nonetheless would be limited in practice this week, according to Thiry. Because the Rams' ensuing injury report doesn't include one player, McVay's attempt at subterfuge already has gone awry. On a positive note, Gurley was a full participant to kick off preparations for the NFC Championship Game, ensuring the offense will be at full strength all week for the first time since the…read more

In line for limited work this week

Coach Sean McVay said Wednesday that Gurley (knee) will be limited in practice this week, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: McVay added that Gurley's left knee is "fine," but considering the "win-or-go-home" mentality at the moment, the running back will have a cap placed on his practice reps. In advance of the Rams' divisional-round win against the Cowboys, Gurley followed up limited listings on the first two injury reports before turning in a full session to wrap up the week, effectively clearing him to suit up. He proceeded to earn the greater share of offensive snaps over fellow running back C.J.Anderson -- 45…read more

Hits century mark, scores in win

Gurley rushed for 115 yards and one touchdown on 16 carries, adding two receptions for three yards during Saturday's 30-22 win against the Cowboys.

Analysis: Gurley and C.J. Anderson diced up the Cowboys' top-five rush defense in the divisional round, amassing 238 combined yards on the ground with three scores against a unit that last week contained Seattle's powerful rushing attack to 2.97 yards per carry. Even with Gurley returning from a knee injury that forced him out of the final two regular-season contests, it was surprising to see Anderson garner over 58 percent of the running back carries. Gurley was typically explosive with his…read more

Poised to play this weekend

Gurley (knee) does not carry an injury designation for Saturday's divisional-round playoff game versus the Cowboys, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: With Gurley having logged a full practice Thursday, the running back is poised to return to game action this weekend, after having what coach Sean McVay described as "a great week." Gurley last suited up Dec. 16, but prior to that he was in the midst of a tremendous campaign, in which he carried 256 times for 1,251 yards and 17 TDs, while adding 59 catches for 580 yards and four mores score over the course of 14 contests. With Gurley slated to head the Rams' backfield Saturday, C.J. Anderson…read more

Limited again Wednesday

Gurley (knee) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: Gurley emerged from Tuesday's pair of walk-throughs with a "limited" tag and repeated that activity level for the Rams' most extensive practice of divisional-round preparations. At this point, Gurley seems destined to be listed as questionable for Saturday's game versus the Cowboys, but on a positive note he reported no soreness in his left knee, as coach Sean McVay told Vincent Bonsignore of The Athletic. Though an active status expected from Gurley this weekend, he nonetheless is slated to…read more

Soreness in knee subsiding

Coach Sean McVay said Gurley didn't experience any discomfort in his left knee following Tuesday's pair of walk-throughs, Vincent Bonsignore of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Gurley returned to drills in a limited capacity Tuesday, albeit in walk-throughs as opposed to a true practice. McVay relayed Gurley will take part in Wednesday's session, so the running back's upcoming listing will be interesting to track. In the end, though, it's expected Gurley will suit up Saturday against the Cowboys as part of a backfield timeshare with C.J. Anderson, something McVay has intimated since this past weekend.

Officially limited Tuesday

Gurley (knee) was listed as limited on the Rams' estimated injury report Tuesday, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Gurley was unable to progress to full, as coach Sean McVay was hoping, but the running back has participated in each of the team's last three walk-throughs (one Sunday and a pair Tuesday). The Rams' upcoming practice schedule is unknown, but sessions Wednesday and Thursday will be revealing for Gurley's availability in the divisional round. However his activity level pans out this week, McVay told Cameron DaSilva of USA Today that there will be a "good balance of both" Gurley and C.J. Anderson…read more

To participate Tuesday

Coach Sean McVay said Gurley (knee) will take part in Tuesday's afternoon walkthrough, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: The activity will come on the heels of participation in Tuesday's early walk-through. It remains to be seen whether Gurley's workload will be enough to warrant a listing of "full," but McVay mentioned Sunday that he expects the running back to be just that at Tuesday's session, per Simmons. McVay told Cameron DaSilva of USA Today on Tuesday that the Rams will have a "good balance of both" Gurley and Week 16 and 17 revelation C.J. Anderson on Saturday versus the Cowboys. As a result, Gurley may…read more

Participates in light practice

Head coach Sean McVay said Gurley (knee) went through a walkthrough Sunday, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: McVay has stated on multiple occasions that Gurley is expected to be ready for this Saturday's divisional playoff game against the Cowboys. The running back's participation Sunday only supports that notion. Nearly all worries of Gurley's impending availability will vanish if he's able to fully participate in Tuesday's practice -- and that is something McVay expects to happen, according to Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site.

To be ready for divisional round

Coach Sean McVay said he "would be very, very surprised" if Gurley (knee) isn't healthy enough to play in the Rams' divisional-round game on Saturday, Jan. 12, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: Gurley was held out Weeks 16 and 17 due to a bout with inflammation in his left knee, which allowed C.J. Anderson to rack up 47 touches as the Rams locked up the No. 2 seed in the NFC with back-to-back victories. The Rams aren't required to post an injury report until Tuesday, Jan. 8, so his listing there will give a good indication of his potential to suit up for their playoff opener. Beyond Anderson, John Kelly (27 touches the last two games) and Justin Davis (four special teams snaps) are…read more

Sidelined again Week 17

The Rams ruled out Gurley (knee) for Sunday's contest against the 49ers, Myles Simmons of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Since he was diagnosed with left knee inflammation, Gurley hasn't practiced and now will miss a second straight game. Officially, he'll end his fourth regular season with 1,831 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns in 14 appearances. With Gurley sidelined until the playoffs, at the earliest, the Rams are expected to turn to veteran C.J. Anderson again to start at running back.

Not spotted at practice

Gurley (knee) wasn't present for the open portion of Friday's practice, Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: Gurley is trending toward another absence without any practice participation the past two weeks. Per Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com, the running back revealed Thursday that his left knee was also a problem after Week 1, but it cleared up much faster the first time around. He's now stuck with lingering inflammation and soreness, which caused the Rams to rule him out as a game-time decision last week. Coach Sean McVay suggested the team will have a better idea by Friday or Saturday this week, but…read more

Still sidelined Thursday

Coach Sean McVay said Gurley (knee) won't practice Thursday but doesn't need to participate Friday in order to be active Sunday against the 49ers, Cameron DaSilva of USA Today reports.

Analysis: Gurley has been sidestepping practice to focus on rehabilitation of his left knee, which forced an absence Week 16 and is threatening another for the regular-season finale. McVay's comments don't come as surprise, as a player of Gurley's stature doesn't necessarily require practice reps to be able to play in a game. Friday's injury report will forecast whether or not Gurley has a chance to return. Meanwhile, C.J. Anderson likely would lead the backfield in the event the Rams opt to keep Gurley…read more

No activity Wednesday

Gurley (knee) didn't participate in Wednesday's walk-through session, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: Since being diagnosed with left knee inflammation in the aftermath of Week 15, Gurley hasn't logged a single practice rep and didn't suit up in Sunday's win over Arizona. After terming the running back "day-to-day" on Monday, coach Sean McVay referenced Gurley's availability for the regular-season finale Wednesday, stating the Rams expect to know whether or not he'll be able to play in advance of a Week 17 matchup with the 49ers, according to Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com. That's a far cry from…read more

Receives 'day-to-day' label

Coach Sean McVay labeled Gurley (knee) "day-to-day" Monday, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: The Rams opted not to risk Gurley's health in what amounted to an easy road victory over the Cardinals on Sunday, with his replacement and recent signee C.J. Anderson torching the opposition for 167 yards and one touchdown on 20 carries. The performance may have inspired a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, who said the team is considering holding out Gurley again. McVay's ensuing comment may have doused some of those flames, especially because the Rams need to consider every possible…read more

May sit again Week 17

The Rams are considering holding Gurley (knee) out for the team's Week 17 game against the 49ers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though early reports Sunday suggested Gurley would likely play in the Rams' eventual 31-9 win over the Cardinals, the team ultimately kept the star running back inactive for the first time all season after apparently not being convinced that he was healthy enough to suit up. That paved the way for the newly-signed C.J. Anderson (20 carries for 167 yards and a touchdown) to fill the bell-cow role out of the backfield, with the veteran's performance in that contest perhaps emboldening the Rams to…read more

Sidelined Sunday

Gurley (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game at Arizona, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: Gurley's availability was dependent on a pregame workout, which didn't go well enough for the team to clear him to play through an inflamed left knee. With Gurley missing his first game since Week 17 of last season, the Rams will turn to recent addition C.J. Anderson, John Kelly and Justin Davis (shoulder) at running back.

Officially inactive Sunday

Gurley (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game at Arizona, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: Gurley's availability was dependent on a pregame workout, which didn't go well enough for the team to clear him to play through an inflamed left knee. With Gurley missing his first game since Week 17 of last season, the Rams will turn to recent addition C.J. Anderson, John Kelly and Justin Davis (shoulder) at running back.

Unlikely to play Sunday

Gurley (knee) is expected to miss Sunday's contest at Arizona, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The move will be made official shortly, but it appears Gurley will yield the backfield to some combination of C.J. Anderson, John Kelly and perhaps Justin Davis (shoulder), if the latter is active.

Trending toward active status

Barring a pregame setback, the Rams expect Gurley (knee) to suit up for Sunday's game at Arizona, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: This more or less lines up with Gurley's status as a game-time decision, but because the running back has felt better as the week went on, there seems to be increased confidence from the Rams camp that an appearance is possible. On the other hand, if Gurley is unable to go, the Rams are slated to start C.J. Anderson, with John Kelly possibly the only running back in reserve due to Justin Davis dealing with a shoulder injury.

Status still uncertain for Sunday

Gurley (knee), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, will be tested during pregame warmups before it's determined whether or not he'll play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: With Gurley still dealing with some inflammation in his left knee, the Rams want to ensure he's reasonably healthy and could rest the star running back if they have any doubts . This leaves fantasy managers in a bind in Week 16. With the Rams and Cardinals kicking off at 4:05 p.m. EST, few alternatives might exist if Gurley isn't ruled out prior to the first wave of games kicking off. A combination of C.J. Anderson and John Kelly would likely handle the bulk of the backfield snaps for the Rams…read more

Game-time call Sunday

Coach Sean McVay said Gurley (knee) would be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cardinals and is considered as a game-time decision, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: According to Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com, Gurley wasn't present for the open portion of Friday's practice, confirming the running back's expectation a day earlier that he wouldn't log any reps prior to the weekend. The lack of practice time in advance of the Week 16 matchup is hardly ideal, but McVay said the Rams won't decide on Gurley's fate until after he completes a pregame workout. With the Rams and Cardinals set to kick off at 4:05 p.m. EST, fantasy managers planning to use Gurley may not…read more

Still thinks he'll play

Gurley (knee) isn't expected to practice Friday, which would mark his third consecutive DNP, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports. However, Gurley believes he'll be able to play Sunday at Arizona. "Yeah, I think I'll be fine. just taking it day by day, recovering, resting, trying to feel better," he said Thursday.

Analysis: Gurley is set to miss practice all week as a result of an inflamed left knee. Speaking of the injury, he added, "I'm not going to tell those guys [coach Sean McVay and Rams trainers] I'm fine when I'm not." Gurley seems to be leaving the door open for inactive status, if he's not feeling it, which could be problematic with a 4:05 PM ET kickoff Sunday. It's difficult to peg who would benefit in his place. Justin Davis also hasn't practiced this week due to a shoulder injury, leaving his upcoming…read more

Officially non-participant Thursday

Gurley (knee) officially didn't practice Thursday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM Radio reports.

Analysis: Gurley's focus has been on treatment of his inflamed left knee rather than practice this week with active status in mind Sunday at Arizona. It's unclear if reserve running back Justin Davis (shoulder) also was a non-participant for a second straight session, but John Kelly and C.J. Anderson handled the reps during the open portion of Thursday's practice. Ultimately, Gurley's workload (or lack thereof) Friday could be key for his listing heading into the weekend.

No activity Thursday

Gurley (knee) wasn't present during the part of Thursday's practice open to the media, Vincent Bonsignore of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Gurley has yet to practice this week as he deals with knee inflammation. Instead, he's focusing on treatment with an appearance expected of him Sunday in Arizona. Reserve running back Justin Davis (shoulder) also was absent Wednesday and appears to be sitting out again Thursday, allowing John Kelly and newcomer C.J. Anderson to get the RB reps in drills.

No practice to start week

Gurley (knee) didn't participate in Wednesday's walk-through practice, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Reserve running back Justin Davis (shoulder) also didn't take part, leaving all the reps at the position to John Kelly and recent addition C.J. Anderson. Fortunately for Gurley, he received some positive feedback from coach Sean McVay, who expects him to play Sunday at Arizona, per Scott Bordow of The Athletic. With an inflamed knee, Gurley may be hard-pressed to practice at any point this week -- or else risk aggravating the injury further -- but McVay's comments keeps the 24-year-old trending…read more

Expected to play Sunday

Coach Sean McVay said Wednesday that he expects Gurley (knee) to suit up Sunday in Arizona, Scott Bordow of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Gurley emerged from the 30-23 loss to the Eagles over the weekend with an inflamed knee, which likely will impact his practice reps Wednesday through Friday. However, if McVay's prediction comes true, Gurley will be taking on a Cardinals defense that allowed him to rack up 73 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns on 22 touches Week 2.

Knee injury called inflammation

Coach Sean McVay termed Gurley's left knee injury as inflammation, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports. "We think he's going to be OK," McVay said Monday.

Analysis: After missing a possession in the second half of Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Eagles, Gurley returned and finished with 124 yards from scrimmage and two TDs on 22 touches. Along with the aforementioned comments, McVay told Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News that Gurley will play as long as he receives medical clearance, but first the running back will have to get through Week 16 preparations unscathed. The Rams will post their first injury report of the week Wednesday.

Getting knee checked out

Gurley's knee will be examined this week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Gurley missed a drive during Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Eagles while sporting a wrap around his left knee, but he made it back early in the fourth quarter and finished with 124 scrimmage yards and two TDs. While his ability to play through the injury is obviously a good sign, the Rams want to take a closer look before they begin practice for Week 16 at Arizona.

Avoids injury, posts big numbers

Gurley carried the ball 12 times for 48 yards and two touchdowns, adding 76 yards on 10 receptions (13 targets) in Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Eagles.

Analysis: Gurley had to miss an offensive drive after suffering an injury scare in the second half, but he was able to return and finish out the contest. The star back rebounded from a poor showing against the Bears last week, surpassing 100 total yards and turning in his sixth multi-touchdown game of the season. The 10 receptions were a season high and directly a result of the Eagles playing soft coverage on the Rams' downfield threats, allowing Gurley to gobble up a ton of Jared Goff's dumpoff passes.…read more

Returns to game

Gurley (knee) returned to Sunday's game against the Eagles in the fourth quarter, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: Gurley only missed one drive and immediately caught a pass for nine yards after rejoining the contest. With the Rams trailing by 17 points late in the third quarter, Gurley isn't likely to see much work on the ground for the rest of the night, though.

Returns to game

Gurley (knee) returned to Sunday's game against the Eagles in the fourth quarter, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: Gurley only missed one drive and immediately caught a pass for nine yards after rejoining the contest. With the Rams trailing by 17 points late in the third quarter, Gurley isn't likely to see much work on the ground for the rest of the night, though

Exits with knee injury

Gurley left Sunday's game against the Eagles with a knee injury and is considered questionable to return, Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports Philadelphia reports.

Analysis: With Justin Davis (shoulder) exiting earlier in the contest, rookie John Kelly is in the game at running back. Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports that Gurley is jumping and moving around on the sideline, presumably testing out his knee to see if he can re-enter the game.

Shut down by Chicago

Gurley rushed 11 times for 28 yards, adding another 30 yards on three receptions (seven targets) in Sunday's 15-6 loss to the Bears.

Analysis: This was obviously Gurley's worst performance of the season. Outside of one 12-yard rush, the star back couldn't maneuver away or through the Bears' stout front seven. The 11 carries are a bit of a surprise considering the game was never really out of reach, but an increase may not have made much of a difference considering how the rest of his rushes went. Gurley has been one of the best fantasy performers this season and should continue to be treated as such -- assuming this dud didn't come in…read more

Dominates out of bye week

Gurley rushed 23 times for 132 yards and two touchdowns and brought in three of five targets for 33 yards in the Rams' 30-16 win over the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Gurley had to often fight for his gains, but he essentially capped off his day yardage-wise with a 36-yard rumble with 2:32 remaining in which he purposely went down two yards short of the end zone in order to burn off clock. He would eventually go into the end zone two plays later to essentially seal the win for the Rams, giving him multiple rushing scores for the first time in the last five games. The outing also represented a nice bounce-back effort for Gurley, who'd seen game script limit…read more

Healthy after bye week

Gurley (ankle) wasn't included on the Rams' injury report Wednesday, Cameron DaSilva of USA Today reports.

Analysis: Following the Rams' 54-51 victory over the Chiefs in Week 11, coach Sean McVay relayed that Gurley's ankle was rolled up on and limited the running back to an extent during the contest. Those restrictions were reflected in his relatively light workload in the shootout, as Gurley finished with 94 yards from scrimmage on 15 touches. Fortunately for Gurley, he had a Week 12 bye to return to full health, which McVay confirmed Wednesday, per DaSilva. Gurley will turn his attention to Sunday's…read more

Fine after minor ankle injury

Gurley was slightly limited Monday after rolling his ankle early in the contest, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports. However, head coach Sean McVay also noted that the injury is not expected to be an issue moving forward.

Analysis: Gurley's action was rather light during Monday's contest, rushing a season-low 12 times for 55 yards. The probable reason behind the limited showing has now been revealed, and it's relatively minor in nature. With a bye week awaiting the Rams in Week 12, he probably won't miss future action because of the injury.

Touchdown streak snapped

Gurley rushed 12 times for 55 yards and caught all three of his targets for 39 yards in Monday night's 54-51 win over the Chiefs.

Analysis: Gurley, by his standards, was shockingly quiet in Monday's offensive explosion that saw a combined 105 points scored. In fact, having found the end zone in 13 straight games, Gurley failed to contribute to that exorbitant streak. Furthermore, his 55 rushing yards marked his fewest since Week 2. With Rams quarterback Jared Goff setting a new career high in attempts, Gurley wasn't able to put his usual stamp on the contest and now embarks on Los Angeles' Week 12 bye.

Posts 160 yards in win

Gurley amassed 120 rushing yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, adding three receptions for 40 yards during Sunday's 36-31 win against Seattle.

Analysis: The machine keeps on churning, as Gurley racked up 130-plus offensive yards for the sixth time in 10 outings during the win. (He's averaging 139 scrimmage yards per game overall.) The likely first-team All Pro has a remarkable 16 combined touchdowns thus far in 2018 to put him on pace to tie Emmitt Smith for fifth all-time in a single season with 25, and he's on trajectory to be the highest-scoring back in standard and PPR formats for the second consecutive year. Week 11 brings a savory matchup…read more

Bottled up in loss to Saints

Gurley carried 13 times for 68 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's game against the Saints. He also caught six of seven targets for 11 yards in the 45-35 loss.

Analysis: Gurley struggled to get it going on the ground outside of a 24-yard gain, and he did next to nothing as a receiver despite finishing third on the team in targets. He did score his 16th touchdown of the season on an 8-yard scamper in the first quarter, helping him provide some fantasy utility despite a tough day by his lofty standards. Gurley was going up against one of the top run defenses in the NFL, and his team played from behind for most of the day, but his owners were surely still banking…read more

Racks up 195 offensive yards

Gurley ran for 114 yards on 25 attempts, adding six receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 29-27 win against Green Bay.

Analysis: Gurley had an opportunity to score his second touchdown of the day during the final moments of regulation with the Rams leading -- but instead allowed himself to be tackled in bounds to burn out the clock and cap a 29-27 victory over the Packers. With 15 scores at the midway point of the regular season, Gurley is putting himself in position to contend with LaDainian Tomlinson's single-season record of 31 total touchdowns. The supremely talented Gurley has fully replicated his monstrous 2017…read more

Scores three touchdowns in win over 49ers

Gurley carried 15 times for 63 yards and two touchdowns Sunday against the 49ers. He also caught four of five targets for 23 yards and another touchdown in the 39-10 win.

Analysis: Gurley averaged an acceptable 4.2 yards per carry, but the blowout nature of the game allowed Malcolm Brown to record a season-high 13 totes of his own. The All-Pro still did plenty of damage with his 19 touches, including a pair of short touchdown runs and a 12-yard reception for a score to take his total to an eye-popping 14 in seven games this season. Gurley is in the midst of a truly special campaign and is averaging 136.6 scrimmage yards per game as well. He'll look to produce more of the…read more

Sets career high in rushing

Gurley rushed 28 times for 208 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 23-20 victory over the Broncos. He also secured two of five targets for 17 receiving yards.

Analysis: Mark Gurley down as yet another running back to have his way with the Broncos' crumbling run defense, and the Georgia product set a new career-high, single-game rushing total along the way. The two trips to the end zone also marked Gurley's eighth and ninth rushing scores of the year and bump his touchdown total to 11 on the season. With Gurley having scored in nine straight games dating back to 2017, he's arguably the most trustworthy fantasy running back. His brilliant season should only…read more

Scores three touchdowns

Gurley had 22 carries for 77 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's 33-31 win at Seattle. He also caught four of five targets for 36 yards.

Analysis: Gurley could have had four touchdowns, as he was originally awarded a nine-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. However, he was ruled down at the one-yard line after a replay review, and the Rams ultimately had to settle for a short field goal. He continues to rack up the yardage, with at least 110 yards from scrimmage in four of five games this season. Given the state of the Rams' explosive offense, he should continue to record plenty of touchdowns too, with nine scores on the year.…read more

Excels through air in Week 4 win

Gurley rushed 17 times for 83 yards and brought in four of six targets for 73 yards and a touchdown in the Rams' 38-31 win over the Vikings on Thursday night.

Analysis: Gurley went a bit underused on the ground in the shootout, but he still found his way to an impressive 4.9 yards per rush, his second-highest figure in that category this season. He also turned in a season-high total in receiving yards, getting into the end zone through the air for the first time in 2018 by hauling in a perfectly thrown eight-yard pass from Jared Goff in the first quarter. Given his typical workload and game-breaking ability in both the running and passing games, Gurley's stock…read more

Racks up 156 yards from scrimmage with touchdown

Gurley had 23 carries for 105 yards and a touchdown, adding five receptions on six targets for 51 yards in Sunday's 35-23 win over the Chargers. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: Gurley dealt with some cramping in last week's win over Arizona, but was obviously more than fine Sunday, although he had a long run of just 14 yards. He should continue to see 20-plus touches every week as one of the most reliable and productive running backs in the league. Gurley will face Minnesota on Thursday.

Makes three end-zone visits Sunday

Gurley played 49 of 72 offensive snaps during Sunday's 34-0 win against the Cardinals. In the process, he accounted for 19 carries for 42 yards and three touchdowns to go with three catches (on three targets) for 31 yards.

Analysis: Gurley didn't have the most efficient game on the ground, averaging just 2.2 YPC, but he made up for it with three visits to the end zone. His final line was impacted by an early departure to deal with cramping, which allowed backup Malcolm Brown to post 12 rushes for 46 yards. With Gurley calling himself "fine" after the game, according to Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site, he'll take on lead duties, per usual, Sunday against the Chargers.

Dealing with cramping

Gurley is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Cardinals due to cramps, Myles Simmons of the Rams' official site reports.

Analysis: With temperatures in the mid-80s in LA and the Rams ahead 27-0 at the point of his departure in the third quarter, Gurley likely will remain on the sideline for the rest of the contest. If he doesn't make another appearance, he'll finish the day with 73 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns on 22 touches.

Back at practice Thursday

Gurley was a full participant at Thursday's practice, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Gurley was absent from Wednesday's session due to non-injury-related reasons but does not appear to be facing any limitations going forward. There is a good chance he was simply given an extra day off after the Rams played on Monday night in their regular season opener. Gurley has a nice matchup in Week 2 against a Cardinals defense that surrendered 4.9 yards per carry to Washington running backs in their first game.

Sits out Wednesday

Gurley missed practice Wednesday for non-injury-related reasons, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Typically, there are two reasons for sitting out practice due to a non-injury: either for maintenance purposes or due to a personal issue. Considering Gurley didn't take a snap during the preseason but still churned out 147 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown in the Week 1 win over Oakland, the 24-year-old may have been extended a courtesy day off. No matter the reason for Gurley's absence, there's no indication he's in danger of missing Sunday's divisional matchup with the Cardinals.

Tops century mark in opener

Gurley rushed 20 times for 108 yards while adding three catches for 39 yards and a touchdown on five targets in Monday's season-opening, 33-13 win over the Raiders.

Analysis: Gurley took a shovel pass to the house for a 19-yard receiving score in the first quarter, but he saved his best rushing work for later. With Los Angeles protecting a 10-point lead on what turned out to be the team's final offensive drive, Gurley picked up 41 yards on five carries, highlighted by a punishing 23-yard run. The Rams looked terrific on both sides of the ball once they finally got going in the second half, suggesting the team will often be milking the clock late and giving Gurley…read more

Won't play in preseason

Coach Sean McVay confirmed Thursday that Gurley will not play in the preseason, ESPN's Lindsey Thiry reports.

Analysis: The running back can now focus on staying healthy and preparing for the coming season, without risking injury in either of the Rams' final two preseason games. Following a 2017 season in which he carried 279 time for 1,305 yards and 13 TDs, while catching 64 passes for 788 yards and six TDs in 15 games, Gurley profiles as RotoWire's No. 1 ranked fantasy running back.

Not playing Saturday

Gurley won't suit up for Saturday's preseason game against the Texans, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: Gurley has yet to play this month, so getting ruled out for preseason Week 3 all but ensures he won't see game action until the regular-season opener. The decision is a logical one after he handled a career-high 343 touches last year en route to being named NFL Offensive Player of the Year. After racking up 321 touches in 2016, he's as safe of a bet as any running back to maintain his floor into the coming campaign.

Gets $45 million guaranteed

Gurley has reached an agreement with the Rams on a four-year, $60 million extension with $45 million guaranteed, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Analysis: The extension covers 2020-23, as Gurley is entering his fourth NFL season and the Rams have already picked up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. The deal makes a lot of sense for both parties, giving Gurley financial security while presumably allowing the Rams to keep his cap hit in check for a few more seasons. This does create some potential for hostility down the road, as the deal could look like a huge bargain by 2021 or 2022 if Gurley is still a superstar and the NFL salary cap…read more

The Rams have picked up Gurley's fifth-year contract option, USA Today reports.

Analysis: The running back is thus under contract with the team through the 2019 season. Keeping Gurley around was a no-brainer for the Rams, following a stellar 2017 campaign in which the 23-year-old carried 279 times for 1,305 yards and 13 TDs while adding 64 catches for 788 yards and six receiving scores in 15 games. Heading into the draft, Gurley's top backups are Malcolm Brown and Justin Davis, neither of whom presents a major threat to his workload.

Gurley rushed 14 times for 101 yards and caught four passes for another 10 yards during Saturday's 26-13 loss to Atlanta in the wild-card round.

Analysis: Gurley joined historic company this season by leading the NFL in yards from scrimmage and total touchdowns, and while he struggled to get going early Saturday, his numbers at the conclusion of the game were up to his usual standard. Unfortunately, Los Angeles turned the ball over twice on special-team returns in the first quarter, and it put the offense in a tough spot. While the Rams stuck around until late in the fourth quarter, those turnovers proved to be too much to overcome, and Gurley…read more

Won't play Week 17

Gurley will be held out for Sunday's regular-season finale against the 49ers, Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis: With his team destined for either the No. 3 or 4 slot in the NFC, head coach Sean McVay determined that keeping his stars healthy is more important than the minor difference in seeding. He might've decided otherwise if Carson Wentz (knee) were still healthy, as the No. 3 seed can't face the No. 1 seed in the divisional round. In any case, Malcolm Brown figures to lead the Rams backfield this weekend, with Lance Dunbar, Tavon Austin and Justin Davis also candidates to get work. While MVP voters…read more

Could sit out Week 17 for rest

Rams head coach Sean McVay suggested Tuesday that Gurley and several other key starters could be rested for the regular-season finale Sunday against the 49ers, Alden Gonzalez of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Regardless of the outcome of Sunday's game, the Rams will finish the regular season as the NFC's No. 3 or 4 seed, which grants the team a first-round home playoff game in either scenario. Competing for the No. 3 spot isn't as important of a priority for McVay as keeping the Rams' core contributors healthy for the postseason, so it appears Gurley's run of late-season dominance will come to an end Week 17. Even if active Sunday, Gurley, who led many fantasy owners to championships with eight…read more

Gurley rushed 22 times for 118 yards and added 10 catches for 158 yards and two touchdowns on 13 targets in Sunday's 27-23 win over the Titans.

Analysis: The Gurley from his first two years would likely have struggled against Tennessee's third-ranked run defense, but his improvement as a receiver out of the backfield allowed the third-year running back to thrive against the Titans' 25th-ranked pass defense. He found paydirt on a three-yard catch in the first quarter and scored again on an 80-yard screen pass in the second. Gurley's jump from zero receiving touchdowns in his first two years to six this season is a big factor behind his team's…read more

Gurley ran 21 times for 152 yards and three touchdowns while reeling in all three passes directed his way for 28 yards and another score in Sunday's 42-7 defeat of the Seahawks.

Analysis: Gurley rumbled in from the one-yard line in each of the first two quarters, went virtually untouched on a 57-yard run with less than a minute remaining in the first half, and added his receiving touchdown as the icing on the cake in the third before sitting out the rest of the contest. He had five rushes for nine or more yards on the day. Despite facing another tough rush defense Week 16 at Tennessee, Gurley remains a matchup-proof automatic start for fantasy purposes.

Gurley carried 13 times for 96 yards and a pair of touchdowns Sunday against the Eagles. He also caught three of five targets for 39 yards in the 43-35 loss.

Analysis: Gurley gashed the stout Philadelphia front for 7.4 yards per carry, but the flow of the game resulted in his second-lowest carry total of the season. He still made a strong impact as a pass catcher, finishing second on the team in receiving while eclipsing 100 scrimmage yards for the seventh time in the last eight games. He also has six touchdowns during that span and will remain an elite fantasy option next week against the Seahawks.

Gurley rushed 19 times for 74 yards while catching six of seven targets for 84 yards during Sunday's 32-16 victory over the Cardinals.

Analysis: Gurley was the victim of bad luck when the Rams decided to pass from the one-yard line in the first quarter. Fortunately for fantasy owners, the Georgia product made up for it through the air, ultimately finishing the day as the team leader in practically every significant receiving category. After notching 43 passes for 327 yards and zero touchdowns in 2016, Gurley is already up to 48 catches, 563 receiving yards and three touchdowns through 12 games in 2017. The only running back that's been…read more

Gurley racked up 17 carries for 74 yards and four receptions (on seven targets) for 54 yards during Sunday's 26-20 win versus the Saints.

Analysis: Gurley is enjoying a resurgent campaign under the direction of first-year head coach Sean McVay. With another 100-plus yards from scrimmage, Gurley has now accomplished the feat in eight of 11 games this season. Unfortunately for the running back, he was unable to pad his stat line with a touchdown, as the Rams' three visits to the red zone ended with a pair of Jared Goff TD throws and a Greg Zuerlein field goal. Gurley will now feast his eyes on a Week 13 matchup with the Cardinals, who he ran…read more

Gurley rushed 15 times for 37 yards and a touchdown while also hauling in three of four targets for 19 yards in Sunday's 24-7 loss to the Vikings.

Analysis: Gurley saw the abundant running room that he'd benefitted from in three of the prior four games largely evaporate Sunday, as the Vikings clearly came in with a focus on slowing down the talented third-year back. The 23-year-old did manage to score his fourth touchdown over the last three games and notch multiple catches for the fourth straight contest. Gurley has actually encountered tough sledding on the ground in two of his last three games, leading to his longest stretch without a 100-yard…read more

Gurley gained 68 yards on 11 carries and 68 yards on six receptions (seven targets) in Sunday's 33-7 win over the Texans.

Analysis: Gurley didn't do much on the ground until early in the fourth quarter when he ripped off a 34-yard gain that briefly looked like it might go for a long touchdown. He did lead the Rams in every major receiving category in the first half, but Robert Woods ended that with a massive third quarter. The Seahawks (in Week 5) are the only team that's managed to shut down Gurley this season, with the third-year back otherwise producing 96 or more scrimmage yards in every game and leading the league with…read more