Todd Gurley was one of the most talked about players that switched teams this offseason following his surprising release from the Los Angeles Rams. It was a move that many were surprised by, especially due to the fact that Gurley was one of the elite superstars in the NFL just a couple short years ago. Unfortunately, a knee injury set him back and slowed him down quite a bit in 2019.

Following his release from the Rams, Gurley ended up signing a one-year, $5.5 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons.

It is somewhat of a homecoming for the 25-year-old running back. He played his college football for the Georgia Bulldogs and was loved by the fans in Atlanta. Coming back to Atlanta to play for the Falcons will be a warm welcome home from the fans.

Last season with the Rams, Gurley ended up carrying the football 223 times for 857 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also caught 31 passes for 207 yards and another two scores. Those numbers weren't up to par with what fans have become used to from Gurley, but they did show that he still has some good football left in him.

While Gurley may never return to elite superstardom, he could be a very nice addition for the Falcons. Let's take a look at why signing Gurley is well worth the risk for the Falcons.

It's Only A One-Year Deal

Let's start with the fact that signing Gurley is only a one-year commitment. If things don't work out, the Falcons can walk away next offseason without spending any more money. Gurley likely won't ever return to being the top running back in the NFL, but he still could be a massive upgrade for the Falcons over what they would have received from Devonta Freeman.

Hopefully, this one-year deal pays off and the Falcons can bring Gurley back for another year or two. However, there is no long-term risk at all from this move.

Atlanta Has Absolutely Nothing To Lose

Next up, there is absolutely nothing to lose for the Falcons from this move. After missing the playoffs with a disappointing performance in the 2019 NFL season, the pressure is on the team's leadership in 2020. Both head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff are on the hot seat and will likely lose their jobs if the Falcons don't take a big step forward this year.

There were no better options available for the Falcons at running back this offseason than Gurley. He brings the potential for a major upgrade in the backfield behind Matt Ryan. The move may not pay off, but if it does, Gurley could end up saving Quinn and Dimitroff's jobs.

A Consistent Role Could Lead To A Turnaround

Last season with the Rams, Gurley never found a sense of security with his role. Sean McVay and company were focused on keeping him healthy and fresh, which led to a very inconsistent role. That will likely improve this season with the Falcons.

Reports have stated that the Falcons have no clue what Gurley's health is like right now. That is a major concern, but there is optimism in Atlanta. Whether or not that optimism will pay off will only be found out with time.

A Healthy-Ish Gurley Is Exactly What The Falcons Needed

Finally, the Falcons don't need Gurley to be at 100 percent for him to make a major difference. All they need is for Gurley to get back to being a 1,000-yard threat on the ground, which he showed the potential to be last season.

Atlanta is still going to be a pass-heavy offense with Ryan and Julio Jones leading the way. They need a legitimate ground game to take pressure off of the passing game. If Gurley can provide that for them, this move will end up being a steal.