The Falcons brought in former Georgia running back Todd Gurley during the off-season in an attempt to improve the team’s accelerated attack. Gurley, a former All-Pro with the Rams, signed a one-year deal in Atlanta after being released in 2019.
On Wednesday afternoon, Gurley appeared on the NFL Network and expressed enthusiasm about the team’s new coach, Arthur Smith, and general manager, Terry Fontenot. Gurley was asked by Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner if the Falcons’ recent signings made him want to stay in Atlanta for another season.
“I definitely need to get in touch with him and GM just so I can talk to them to see what they are thinking and get a head start on the free agency business,” said Gurley.
Given the leap in Derrick Henry’s success when Smith was promoted to offensive coordinator in Tennessee, it is easy to see the appeal of playing under Smith. This season with the Falcons, Gurley ran for less than 1,000 yards for the second consecutive season, with a career drop of 678 yards. Since 2015, he leads the league with 67 touchdowns.
Whether or not Gurley’s return depends on the Falcons’ new leadership, but he would probably have to accept less money after an unlikely 2020 campaign. If he signed in Atlanta, the team could still add a running back to the draft, but it wouldn’t be such a high priority.