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Todd Gurley Makes Only Logical Choice Declaring for 2015 NFL Draft

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By @GilAlcarazIV

Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

It came as no surprise on Friday when it was confirmed that Georgia running back Todd Gurley would be declaring for the 2015 NFL Draft, ending what was an excellent (and controversial) collegiate career.

Heading into the 2014 season, Gurley was considered one of the nation’s top running back talents. However, a suspension for violating NCAA rules cost him four games after an outstanding start to the season. After finally returning to the field, Gurley torn his ACL, effectively ending his college career.

Still, despite the obvious injury concerns and character questions, there’s no denying that Gurley has all of the natural ability to be a workhorse back in the NFL. Not only did he put up impressive stats throughout his career with the Bulldogs (3,900 total yards from scrimmage, 43 total touchdowns, 6.4 yards per carry), but Gurley consistently dominated some of the best defenses college football had to offer.

The biggest concern heading towards the 2015 NFL Draft is how much damage the ACL tear did to his draft stock.

It brings to mind Marcus Lattimore, who entered the NFL after suffering a devastating knee injury (his second in as many years). After two years of attempting to rehab the knee with the San Francisco 49ers, the once-elite Lattimore opted to retire knowing he would never be the same player he once was.

While Gurley’s injury wasn’t as bad, it’s still something that will weigh on the minds of NFL decision makers.

Despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, this was the best move for Gurley. He had already proven that he’s more than capable of carrying the load, and showed scouts that he could dominate top defenses on a weekly basis. Coming back to Athens and getting the knee healthy might have helped his stock a smidgen, but it also could have opened the door for another serious injury.

It’s anyone’s guess where Gurley could go when the draft rolls around – Lattimore fell to the fourth round – but chances are someone will gamble on him before Day 2 is over. If he shows significant progress during the pre-draft process, he might have make a case to be taken in the first round.

Either way, Gurley is better off testing his luck in the NFL than returning to Georgia. No need to give the NCAA or his knee any more opportunities to cloud his future in football.

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