Rams Activate Running Back John Kelly

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Ed "Pi Double i" Henderson

​The Los Angeles Rams have ruled out their starting running back Todd Gurley for their game against the San Francisco 49ers at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Gurley, who appeared late during the week on the injury report with a bruised thigh, will sit out what will be a pivotal game for the Rams. The Rams will seek to prevent a three-game losing streak for the first time under head coach Sean McVay's tenure.

The Rams have activated second-year running back John Kelly from the practice squad whom the team cut in a fierce battle during the pre-season. The Rams drafted Kelly in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft from the University of Tennessee, where he split carries with the New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara. 

Kelly is a powerful runner between the tackles who also is an excellent receiver from the backfield. The 215-pound ran a 4.50 second at Tennessee's pro-day and is shifty but a powerful back. During his short NFL career, Kelly has rushed the ball 27 times for 74-yards and also has two receptions for 27 yards. A significant decline in numbers from Gurley, but is amicable enough to contribute on Sunday.

The 49ers will bring their number two overall defense to the Coliseum that has a front seven that applies significant pressure to the quarterback. Kelly more likely will be used on passing down to help restrict some of the Niners pressure of quarterback Jared Goff.

In a corresponding move, the Rams released rookie wide receiver Nsimba Webster from the active roster.

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