Los Angeles Rams

Rams expect Todd Gurley 'to miss first couple games'

Published Aug. 13, 2015 1:52 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Rams are taking a cautious approach when it comes to rookie running back Todd Gurley.

Despite being able to go through drills at training camp nine months removed from ACL surgery, the team doesn't anticipate Gurley to be ready anytime soon.

"He won't play in the preseason," NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport said. "I'm told the Rams don't even expect him to be ready for the season. They believe he'll miss the first couple games, not wanting to risk injury until he's ready."

It's in the club's best interests, as well as Gurley's, not to rush his return from a serious injury.

What should ease some of the worry is the Rams have a capable back in second-year man Tre Mason to fill the void while Gurley eases his way into the mix.

As a rookie in 2014, Mason recorded 179 carries for 765 yards (4.3 yards per carry) and four touchdowns, including a pair of 100+ yard rushing games.

(h/t NFL.com)