Load Management time has arrived for the Atlanta Falcons

When the Atlanta Falcons decided to bring in former MVP candidate Todd Gurley for one year, they decided that taking a risk on the former Bulldog was worth the small price.

This is the type of signing that the Atlanta Falcons fans have been clamoring for. While acquiring Todd Gurley would have been great a few years ago, I guess late is better than never. Kudos to the Falcons for not giving in to the trade demands for the Rams and picking up an All-Pro running back for cheap.

Now that Gurley is an Atlanta Falcon, now the team has to decide how to handle him. It’s been publicized that Todd Gurley has some health concerns with his knees. Have arthritis is something that can’t be a cure so the Falcons have to make sure not to overuse him.

Just like Kawhi Leonard with the Clippers, it would be best if the Falcons load manage Todd Gurley to ensure he stays healthy, especially since the Falcons have playoffs or bust aspirations.  The Falcons still need to address the running back position in the draft, but it might not be as much as a priority as addressing the secondary or linebacker positions.

Luckily for both Gurley and the Falcons, there is a stable of solid running backs on the team that can help keep Todd Gurley healthy. When Devonta Freeman was out or not playing well at all, running backs Brian Hill and Ito Smith were able to step in and produce. The Falcons did place a fifth-round tender for Brian Hill, but if no team decides to go after him, the Falcons will be fine with that.

If Gurley can step in and be that productive back he was a few years ago while staying healthy, this will go down as one of the best free-agent signings in team history. It could possibly lead to something more than a one year deal if the money is right for both sides.

The fan base of the Falcons has every right to be excited about this especially if Gurley can stay healthy, but that’s the key to it all. The Falcons must keep Gurley healthy in order for this to be a success.