Raheem Morris name Ito Smith the lead back to finish out the season

The Atlanta Falcons have a new lead running back, as coach Raheem Morris has handed the role over to Ito Smith, per the Falcons’ Kelsey Conway. Smith has easily been out-producing Todd Gurley of late, but this is likely more to do with Gurley’s chronic knee injury being beyond repair.

Over the last four games, Gurley has rushed 23 times for 60 yards and no touchdowns, while Smith has rushed 37 times for 167 yards and one touchdown in that span, per Adam Levitan. Both lines are bad, but Smith had already taken over the job and now it is official.

In the end, Smith’s workload probably will stay around its current state, as the Falcons are going to pass the ball to their wide receivers for the most part. With the Chiefs up next, there is a twinkling of upside for Smith as a receiver, but would be in only the deepest possible leagues. He should remain on your waiver wires unless you are completely stuck at the position.