Could Rams RB Kyren Williams 'Impact' Passing Game?
Since running back Todd Gurley's departure from the Los Angeles Rams in 2020, coach Sean McVay and his staff have yet to find a reliable pass catcher out of the backfield.
However, that could change this year, as according to The Athletic, second-year running back Kyren Williams has shown that he can be a legitimate pass catcher for the Rams during training camp.
"To start, they’ll probably feature both Akers and Williams, and the rep share will be situational depending on the defense they’re facing," The Athletic writes. "But where Williams could have a bigger impact is in the passing game, where he truly excelled throughout training camp. Quarterback Matthew Stafford especially seemed to get comfortable when targeting Williams as a receiver. The Rams haven’t had this kind of run/pass versatility in their running back room in many years."
In his rookie campaign last season, Williams never had the opportunity to become a solid contributor for the team as injuries held him back for most of the year.
The Notre Dame product broke his foot during OTAs, sidelining him for months. Then, in the Rams' season opener, the running back suffered a high ankle sprain on his first play and didn't return until Week 10.
As he enters his second professional season, Williams will have an opportunity to prove himself on the Rams' roster and emerge as a complement alongside running back Cam Akers, who has never proven to be an effective pass catcher out of the backfield, having caught only 27 passes for 250 yards in his three seasons with Los Angeles.
Williams will get his first opportunity to make an impact this year when the Rams travel to face the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on Sept. 10.
