Atlanta Falcons must keep running backs healthy in 2020
Atlanta Falcons success in 2020 will reflect in the run game.
If the Atlanta Falcons want to have a successful 2020 season, ensuring the health and safety of the running backs will be a big part of the team’s success.
The past couple of years have not been kind to the Atlanta Falcons in regards to injuries, specifically the running back position. Former starting running back Devonta Freeman spent the majority of the three seasons either out of action, or dinged-up due to injury.
Ito Smith has dealt with a knee injury and concussion the last two seasons, and we all know the situation with Todd Gurley and his knee.
These injuries have dealt the Atlanta Falcons a massive blow over the last couple of years and were big reasons why the team has finished with back-to-back losing seasons. If the running backs can stay healthy, the team will reach the playoffs. in 2020. It’s as simple as that. T
he defense has improved and the passing game will be great as always, but the running game is the big question right now because of health concerns.
Atlanta Falcons Reporter Vaughn McClure sent out a tweet Tuesday afternoon saying that Dirk Koetter’s goal is to get the ball to Gurley 15 to 25 times a game. Gurley proved last year that, while he may not be in MVP form anymore, he is still good enough to put up exceptional numbers.
He will be the top runner on offense and Koetter knows that keeping him healthy and not overworking him is extremely important. Gurley can still play, but he needs to be on the field in order to produce and his knee condition is a massive concern that could keep him on the sideline.
Thankfully, the Atlanta Falcons have three other capable running backs in Smith, Brian Hill, and Qadree Ollison. Ollison proved last year that he can be a short-yardage and red zone threat, and he will most likely be expected to carry more of a load this season.
Next. Atlanta Falcons still have defensive concerns looming. dark
Both Hill and Ollison will be great secondary options if anything happens to Gurley or Smith.
It will be important for the coaches to not overwork Gurley and Smith because this team has depth and talent at the running back position. The health of these guys will be very important because when the running game is going, the Atlanta Falcons are at their best.