The Los Angeles Rams could use some help on offense.
This past season, the Rams offense finished dead last in the NFL in yards per game (297.6) and 29th in points (17.5). Were it not for standout rookie running back Todd Gurley, the Rams would have been the league's worst offense, again finishing last in passing yards per game (175.3) but seventh in rushing offense (122.3). Nick Foles failed to bring some much needed stability to the quarterback position and Los Angeles' offensive line remains a work in progress.
So to help fix it, why not start at the top?
According to CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora, St. Louis has requested permission to interview Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur. It is likely that Philly will move on from Shurmur following Chip Kelly's firing as new Eagles head coach Doug Pederson is rumored to be hiring San Diego Chargers coordinator Frank Reich for the job. After four seasons of sub-par football, head coach Jeff Fisher may finally be realizing that offense is not his forte.
Shurmur has served as Philly's offensive coordinator since 2013. Though play calling duties belonged to Kelly, Shurmur was instrumental in designing some effective offenses despite limitations under center. Philadelphia finished second, fifth and 12th in total offense during Shurmur's three seasons. Meanwhile, the Rams' offense hasn't finished among the top half of the league in total yards since the 2006 season.
As mentioned, Foles was a bust this year. In 11 games he completed a career low 56.4 percent of his passes while throwing for 2,052 yards with seven touchdowns against 10 interceptions. His passer rating of 69.0 ranked 33rd in the NFL. If the Rams can improve even marginally under center, it may allow Gurley just enough room to carry this offense to respectability. Should Shurmur get the job, getting more from his QBs will be the No. 1 priority.
We'll keep you posted as more details emerge.
