Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams was a breakout star last season as he quickly supplanted former starter Cam Akers and the stage was set for a huge season.
After a rookie season in which he had just 35 carries for 139 yards in 10 games. At best, he was viewed as a handcuff for Akers — until a strong training camp led to Williams winning the starting job and never looking back. In 12 games, he had 228 carries for 1,144 yards, caught 32 passes for 2016 yards, and scored 15 touchdowns. He had 20 or more carries in seven of his final nine games, which was unsurprising given head coach Sean McVay’s history.
McVay has consistently leaned on a lone back to have more than 15 carries a game – and often more than 20. It started with Todd Gurley and transferred to C.J. Anderson, Sony Michel and Akers. Williams earned his turn last season and averaged 19 carries a game.
