The Los Angeles Rams have ushered in some significant changes both on and off the field in recent years. Among the most notable was the departure of star running back Todd Gurley.
Gurley helped ring in a new era for the franchise following their relocation to L.A. back in 2016 as one of the best running backs in the league. He served as the centerpiece of a revamped offense under head coach Sean McVay that led to Offensive Player of the Year honors and a trip to the Super Bowl.
While his stint may have come to an abrupt end, Gurley managed to leave his mark after just five years with the team. It is his impact off the field that continues to be felt to this day.
Gurley partnered with TeleHealth to provide medical and mental access to those in need. L.A. mayor Eric Garcetti has since honored him, rapper YG and TeleHealth Van owner Dion Rambo after they helped book more than 5,000 appointments, via Adam Schefter of ESPN:
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is honoring Todd Gurley today for his efforts in providing access to medical and mental health services to those in need in the LA area. pic.twitter.com/OoA3fUgy5K
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 26, 2021
Gurley has been partnered with the TeleHealth Van since the service was launched in May 2020. His efforts in promoting incentive programs for visits and bringing in mental health experts to work with young athletes helped them reach an impressive mark earlier this year.
The 26-year-old signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons last offseason after being cut by the Rams. He finished the year rushing for 678 yards while scoring nine touchdowns in 15 starts and remains a free agent leading up to the 2021 NFL season.
Despite now being a whole season removed from his time with the Rams, it is evident that Gurley is still making a major impact in the community around Los Angeles. His ties to the city and ongoing efforts have only helped cement his status as an honorary Angeleno.
