Rams running back Todd Gurley, the No. 10 overall pick in the spring's NFL draft, has been cleared to begin practicing. Head coach Jeff Fisher made the announcement in a Monday meeting with the media at Rams Park.
“So that's good news,'' Fisher said. “Now we're going to progress him slowly, but he'll be able to participate in seven-on-seven and team drills. To this point, he's just been participating in the one-on-ones. We'll take it slow, but it's going to fun to get him on the practice field.''
Fisher said that Gurley, who underwent ACL surgery on his left knee in November, will not play in the preseason.
“No, we don't have any intention of doing that,'' the coach said. “We're just going to slowly increase his reps and see how he progresses. He may need a day off here or day, but it's good news. Dr. (James) Andrews was really pleased with his progress, so he's cutting him loose... (but) he'll continue to wear the brace.''
When asked if the team was anticipating Gurley being ready for the season opener Sept. 13 against the visiting Seattle Seahawks, Fisher said, “Don't know. Gonna bring him along slow.'' That's been the motto so far this whole offseason, and some beat writers even went as far as saying they didn't think Gurley would have the type of impact this year one would expect from a back taken 10th overall. Tre Mason looks like he'll at least have some early season value. At some point, it's going to be hard to keep a back like Gurley on the sidelines.
