How Todd Gurley bounced back from sophomore slump to win NFL Offensive Player of the Year

After a rough sophomore season in 2016, Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley revived his career in a big way in 2017. The two-time Pro Bowler accumulated a league-high 2,093 yards from scrimmage scrimmage and 19 total touchdowns.

The NFL took notice of Gurley’s career restart and crowned him the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He finished second in yards rushing with 1,305 yards and scored a league-best 13 rushing touchdowns.

It was a clean sweep for the Rams, who also had the Defensive Player of the Year, Aaron Donald.

Gurley won by a significant margin, finishing well ahead of Antonio Brown for the award.

New Rams head coach Sean McVay decided to get Gurley involved in the passing game, which was a huge success. He caught 64 passes for 788 yards and six touchdowns, which were all career highs. His six receiving touchdowns led all running backs.

Gurley’s 2017 performance had a positive impact on the Rams’ offense. Los Angeles finished in the top 10 in passing and rushing and led the league with 29.9 points per game.

Gurley is only 23 years old and isn’t yet in his prime. He’s already considered one of the best players in the NFL after three seasons. Gurley could have more seasons like this. McVay is a pass-happy head coach who wants his running backs to make plays in the passing game. According to Pro Football Focus, Gurley was the top-ranked running back in the pass game this season and No. 1 overall.

If you’re not convinced about Gurley’s talents in the pass game, watch this 80-yard touchdown reception against the Tennessee Titans in Week 16.

Marshall Faulk and Roger Craig are the only running backs in NFL history to ever eclipse 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving in one season. If Gurley can stay healthy, he could join that exclusive group.