The Rams have come to an important crossroads. They’re considering an extension for running back Kyren Williams, who is entering the last year of his rookie contract. In her final season, Williams continued to impress as the superstar on the field. His 43% share of his team’s total touches is equally impressive and was the highest rate in the entire NFL. His performance has led to talks of a future Rams/Acres matrimony as he’s turned heads as a young, future-star running back.
In his 2024 campaign, Williams had a huge season, easily leading the FBS with 1,299 rushing yards. On those 316 carries over 16 regular-season games, he scored a ridiculous 14 touchdowns. He was an important asset in the passing game as he recorded 34 catches for 182 yards and two receiving touchdowns. This season was a huge turning point for Williams. He managed to stay healthy for the entire time, a first in his three-year career with the Rams.
Sean McVay, Rams’ head coach, emphasized how vital Williams has been for his team. Fluffy, civil as ever, seemed sure about one thing though, “He is in touch with all of you. The Rams are clearly some in the organization want to keep his magic around for the long haul. General Manager Les Snead echoed this sentiment, saying, “We would definitely like to engineer a long-term partnership with Kyren.”
The Rams’ backfield is as crowded as it’s ever been. They made a surprising but aggressive play by trading up to select Jarquez Hunter in the fourth round. Hunter displays an unorthodox gait on the track. In college, he averaged a ridiculous 4.03 yards after contact per rush, which was the best of any SEC back with at least 100 carries. He describes himself as “a very north-to-south runner, a downhill runner,” which he believes complements Williams’ running style.
Hunter is new to the team but has joined an industrial backfield. He’ll still be battling with four other RBs who each averaged 105 touches (or more) last year for the Lions. Running back with the Rams consistently drafting a running back every year since 2017, it’s clear that they value building depth at this position.
Sean McVay praised Hunter’s potential, stating, “When you put the film on [of Hunter], he lights up.” He highlighted Hunter’s versatility: “He’s got the ability to go through you or to be able to run away from you.” That versatility just creates even more dimension to the Rams’ offensive dynamic.
For the Rams moving into the new regular season, the challenge will be keeping some balance on the depth chart with the running backs. Williams has established himself as a crucial component of the team’s offense, but Hunter’s arrival made that situation interesting. Despite those concerns, McVay is still positive on getting both players more involved into their game plan. “As far as just bridging that gap, we’ll see how far we have to go for that,” he said.
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