Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley is optimistic heading into next season. Perhaps it’s because last one was a bit of a nightmare for him.

Gurley said he has “been loving” the offense of his new head coach and called McVay a “situational master” in a recent interview.

Gurley also spoke about working with Jared Goff, who is no longer a rookie next season (via NFL.com):

“Oh, he’s been getting better. Obviously, he didn’t go No. 1 for no reason. He has the talent, and he’s just been getting better. He definitely had a great OTAs, great minicamp. Coaches have been doing a good job with him. Just his preparation, him being there all day, he’s been great so far, man, so I’m definitely looking forward to it . . . It can’t get any worse than it did last year.”

After winning the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year Award in 2015, he struggled last season. However, recent free agency moves could mean a huge improvement for Gurley during his second year in Los Angeles.

Added protection from offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth, for example, could provide the spark Gurley needs to force more missed tackles and find space in the open field.

As a rookie, Rams RB Todd Gurley forced a missed tackle once every 5.5 carries. In his second year it was just once every 9.9 carries pic.twitter.com/UakQBIIZRS — Pro Football Focus (@PFF) April 21, 2017