Tre Mason can still make an impact, even with Todd Gurley in St. Louis. (USATSI)

When the St. Louis Rams drafted Todd Gurley with the 10th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the team placed extreme belief in Gurley's individual talent, a talent that the team apparently thinks can overcome less than stellar offensive line play.

Tre Mason knows all about the Rams' lack of run blocking. According to Pro Football Focus, the Rams' offensive line ranked 28th in run blocking last season. Yet, despite the struggles of the offensive line, Mason -- a rookie at the time -- still managed to rack up 4.3 yards per carry, 765 rushing yards, and four scores.

So, it comes as no surprise to learn that when the Rams picked Gurley, Mason was "in shock."

"I was in shock, really, because I thought I did a good job last year," Mason told The St. Louis Post-Dispatch.  "At that time, with a pick like that, it's a replacement."

Mason is right. He should be shocked -- because taking a running back with an injury history is a risky move, no matter how talented Gurley is -- and he should consider Gurley his replacement. But to think Mason will simply fade in Gurley's shadow is unrealistic.

No, Mason won't beat out Gurley for the starting job in St. Louis, but the Rams would be wise to let Mason handle some of Gurley's carries. As previously mentioned, the Rams' offensive line could use some work and, as a result, Gurley is going to be forced to earn his yards. In the process, he's going to take a beating. Considering Gurley's injury history -- he's still rehabbing his torn ACL -- why shouldn't the Rams continue to give Mason some carries?

The Rams, while having their strengths on defense, is going to struggle on offense. Though the team traded for quarterback Nick Foles, it isn't going to become a team dependent on the passing game. Instead, look for the Rams to try to control the clock by keeping possession of the football.

If that's the formula the Rams take then that's good news for Mason. Maybe that's why Mason is, at least publicly, remaining calm about his new position on the depth chart.

"Realistically, it's a competition because there's usually just one running back out there at a time," Mason said. "But honestly, that's not my mindset. I can't worry about anybody else; I have too much work to do. I've been working on my long-distance speed; I know I can burst through the hole, but I want to try and get more long runs this year."

Considering the injuries that running backs typically suffer throughout a 16-game season, Mason can expect to see some carries in 2015. And, if he's able to rip off the long ones that he alluded to, the Rams will be forced to play him even when Gurley is healthy.