The Atlanta Falcons released running back Devonta Freeman in the offseason and instead of drafting his replacement, the team signed free agent Todd Gurley to carry the load.
So far, Gurley has been solid. In six games, he’s racked up 422 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Another former Georgia star stole the show in Week 6, though. Lions rookie D’Andre Swift, a second-round pick in 2020, had a breakout performance on Sunday.
On just 14 carries, Swift rushed for 116 yards and two touchdowns in Detroit’s win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
🔹14 carries
🔹116 yards
🔹2 TDsWatch all of @DAndreSwift's Week 6 touches. pic.twitter.com/rtECpLOhis
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 20, 2020
Splitting time with Adrian Peterson and Kerryon Johnson in the Lions’ backfield, Swift had only 12 total carries entering Week 6. That figures to change when Detroit visits Atlanta this weekend.
The Falcons had their chance to select all three of the draft’s top running backs — Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Jonathan Taylor and Swift — but felt good enough about Gurley, along with backups Ito Smith and Brian Hill, to pass on them.
So far the team is just 1-5, but Gurley hasn’t been the problem in 2020.
