Gurley. For fit reasons. Seattle likes to have a physical/punishing running style. In our ZBS scheme, that punishment quality is derived from the RB position.
If we assume that we do have a larger 3 year projection for the roster, then I think the need for Gurley makes some legitimate sense. Running backs of that quality, with that kind of particular style, don't come along every year. I think even the most ardent Lynch supporters would concede that by 2016 and certainly 2017, Lynch is going to be Beastmode in name only. Seattle would be wise to seek to acquire the quality of physical back necessary to maintain our brand of rushing attack for the next couple seasons.
Gurley is a sublime fit. He may well be the best/ideal fit over these next two years. And for certain, there is the real risk that if another suitable candidate does present itself in that time -- we wouldn't be in a position to draft him.
If Gurley gets within 6-7 picks of 31 -- I think it would be wise for Seattle to ensure that they can sustain the kind of rushing identity that they currently enjoy. It's a key component to our blueprint for success.
Getting Gurley early doesn't necessitate shipping Lynch off prematurely either. His rookie contract will be light. And the ability to effectively spell Lynch without losing efficacy in the next two to three years should only serve to extend Lynch's effectiveness in the waning seasons of his career.
Seattle does see a significant change/drop off when we put Turbin in for extended periods. He's a good backup -- but he's also going on his final year of his rookie deal. He should be expected to leave after this season. Both for better money, but also better opportunity. His career clock is ticking.
Getting Gurley this year is almost perfect timing really. We have the ability to absorb a redshirt year. The ability to develop him for a year without impact on the team. By 2016, we have a guy one year in the system, with much higher quality as a backup. When Lynch is out, and Gurley is in, we're not running to keep teams honest like we do with Turbin. We're executing our full game plan to it's fullest.