Rams lock in Kyren Williams with three-year, $33 million extension
Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams will remain a key piece in the backfield after agreeing to a three-year, $33 million contract extension that includes $23 million guaranteed, a development confirmed by head coach Sean McVay.
Williams, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal, greeted the news with a wide smile and a sense of reassurance about the organization’s faith in him. “It means everything to be part of a team that believes in me,” he said. McVay echoed that sentiment, calling Williams “the epitome” of what the Rams want to represent and praising his work ethic and leadership.
Since assuming a lead role early in the 2023 season, Williams has been the Rams’ primary ball carrier. He carried a heavy workload last season, accounting for 43% of the Rams’ total touches, the highest rate in the NFL, according to ESPN Research. His production over the past two seasons is eye-catching: 31 scrimmage touchdowns, tied for the most in the league with Jahmyr Gibbs; 2,443 rushing yards, ranking third behind Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley.
The extension elevates Williams’ status among NFL running backs in terms of compensation, giving him the seventh-highest average annual salary at the position. He was the 15th running back selected in the 2022 draft, and his 26 career rushing touchdowns are the most among RBs from that class.
The deal reinforces the Rams’ commitment to Williams as a cornerstone of the offense and signals confidence in a run-focused approach that can complement the passing game and the broader high-powered offense led by the team’s coaching staff.
Additional notes and context:
– Williams’ contract readiness comes as the Rams lean into a stable, productive run game to support the offense, potentially easing the workload for the passing game and quarterback play.
– The performance benchmarks Williams has hit over two seasons suggest he could remain a central figure for LA well beyond this contract, assuming health and continued production.
Summary: Kyren Williams has secured a lucrative extension that recognizes his role as the Rams’ top back and a focal point of their offensive plan. With strong carrying metrics, a high-touch share, and a growing track record of scoring, the Rams are banking on Williams to be a long-term foundation of their offense, while positioning themselves for continued balance between the running game and a dynamic passing attack.
Positive angle: This move bodes well for the Rams’ offensive stability, offering Williams motivation and financial security while giving Los Angeles a clear, productive blueprint in a competitive NFL landscape.