The Rams’ Injury Woes Signal a Looming Trend in NFL Running Back Sustainability
The NFL is a league built on physicality, but the recent injury to Los Angeles Rams running back Blake Corum isn’t just a setback for one team – it’s a flashing warning sign. A staggering 68% of starting NFL running backs miss at least one game each season due to injury, a rate significantly higher than other positions. Corum’s ankle injury, sustained during a Monday Night Football matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, underscores a growing concern: the unsustainable demands placed on running backs in the modern NFL, and the strategic shifts teams are being forced to make.
The Rising Cost of Carrying the Load
For years, the workhorse running back was a cornerstone of successful NFL offenses. But the league has evolved. Defenses are faster, more sophisticated, and designed to punish repeated contact. The sheer volume of carries, combined with the increasing physicality of the game, is taking a toll. Corum’s situation, forcing the Rams to lean on Kyren Williams and Ronnie Rivers, highlights the vulnerability of relying heavily on a single back. The Rams’ depth at the position, while present, isn’t a guarantee of consistent performance, especially as the season progresses and wear and tear accumulates.
The Impact of Offensive Line Play and Defensive Schemes
It’s not just about the number of carries. The quality of the offensive line plays a crucial role. A struggling line forces the running back to work harder for each yard, increasing their risk of injury. Furthermore, the proliferation of aggressive, penetrating defensive schemes – think the Falcons’ front seven – puts even more pressure on backs to navigate tight spaces and absorb punishing hits. Teams are increasingly prioritizing pass protection and creating running lanes through scheme rather than relying on a single back to consistently break tackles.
The Shift Towards Running Back Committees and Versatility
The Corum injury isn’t an isolated incident. Look at the league-wide trend. Teams are moving away from the traditional “bell cow” back and embracing running back committees. This approach distributes the workload, reducing the strain on any single player and providing a more sustainable solution. The Rams, even before Corum’s injury, demonstrated a willingness to utilize multiple backs, and this strategy will likely become even more pronounced.
However, simply splitting carries isn’t enough. The modern NFL running back needs to be a multi-faceted weapon. Receiving ability, pass protection skills, and even occasional alignment in the slot are becoming essential. Kyren Williams, for example, has proven his value not only as a runner but also as a reliable pass-catcher. This versatility is what separates the truly valuable backs from those who are simply ball carriers.
Looking Ahead: Draft Strategy and Long-Term Sustainability
The Rams’ recent mock draft focus on defense, as reported here, is a smart move, but addressing the running back position strategically is equally important. While investing a high draft pick in a running back is becoming increasingly risky given the injury concerns, identifying players with exceptional versatility and a lower injury history is crucial. Teams are also exploring innovative training methods and injury prevention programs to mitigate the risks associated with the position.
The future of the NFL running back position hinges on adaptation. Teams must prioritize player safety, embrace committee approaches, and value versatility above all else. The Rams’ situation with Blake Corum serves as a stark reminder that the days of the workhorse back may be numbered, and those who fail to adapt will be left behind.
What are your predictions for the future of the running back position in the NFL? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
