Rams bring back key member of 2021 Super Bowl-winning team

The Los Angeles Rams announced on Tuesday that they are bringing back a key member of their 2021 Super Bowl-winning team, signing running back Sony Michel to a one-year contract.

Michel was the Rams' leading rusher on that team, compiling 845 yards on 206 carries after being acquired in an offseason trade with the New England Patriots. He also averaged 4.1 yards per carry and scored five touchdowns before his role was reduced going into the playoffs. 

After winning the Super Bowl with the Rams, he moved across town and signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency, but carried the ball just 36 times during the 2022 season.

Now he is back with the Rams.

Originally a first-round pick by the Patriots back in 2018 (No. 31 overall), Michel never really developed into the impact player he was during his college days at Georgia. He has had some flashes here and there, but has never topped more than 931 yards in a single season and has not rushed for more than 900 yards since the 2019 season, his second year in the league. 

The Rams already have a really good starting running back in Cam Akers who came on very strong in the second half of the 2022 season and he figures to get the bulk of the playing time and carries this season. But a little extra depth is always important and the Rams are hoping Michel still has something to offer. 

If nothing else, he will at least get an opportunity to earn a roster spot and show what he can do. 

The Rams are hoping to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season that saw them win just five games during an injury-plagued year. They are hoping the return of a healthy Matthew Stafford can help jumpstart the offense.