Kyren Williams made waves in the NFL last season, becoming a breakout star for the Los Angeles Rams. His stellar performance left many fans puzzled when the Rams selected University of Michigan halfback Blake Corum in the third round of the NFL Draft last month. However, the Rams’ front office has a clear strategy in mind, aiming to maximize Williams’ impact while ensuring his longevity.
Keeping Kyren Williams Fresh
Rams General Manager Les Snead recently shed light on the team’s decision to add Corum to their roster. Snead emphasized that the move was designed to keep Williams fresh throughout the grueling NFL season.
“It’s a tough league; it’s a 17-game season plus playoffs, might go to 18 games one day,” Snead told Erica Tamposi of the Rams’ official team website.
Kyren Williams = Hit
Kyren Williams when he’s on is one of the best in the league. Hit when he’s on is one of the strongest fighters in the series. Hit is a new addition to the franchise in the Dragon Ball Super show. Hit immediately becomes one of the best characters and a fan… pic.twitter.com/OrelIWVJru
— JAKE ELLENBOGEN (@JKBOGEN) May 12, 2024
“So we always felt like we needed to have as many quality runners as possible so we don’t just totally run down Kyren, and we have one or two, or even three guys that can contribute, keep everyone fresh, and let’s go and try to impose our will.”
Williams’ performance in 2023 was nothing short of spectacular. Despite missing four games due to an ankle injury and sitting out the season finale, he racked up impressive stats. In the 12 games he played, Williams amassed 1,144 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and averaged five yards per carry. Additionally, he caught 32 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl appearance.
The Blake Corum Factor
Snead’s comments make it clear that the addition of Corum is not a slight against Williams but rather a strategic move to bolster the Rams’ backfield depth. Snead even compared Corum’s style of play to that of Williams, suggesting that the two could form a formidable duo.
“A lot of people have said he’s similar (to Williams),” Snead said of Corum. “They have a very similar play style. They both really, really care about football.
That’s very important on that side of the ball. That’s a sophisticated side of the ball. We’re a relatively advanced, veteran offense, so you definitely are going to need to bring a care factor to be able to get up to speed and be able to function and fit right in and keep the thing humming.”
Corum’s college career further underscores his potential. During his final year at Michigan, the 23-year-old rushed for 1,245 yards and an impressive 27 touchdowns. The previous year, he recorded 1,463 yards and 18 scores.
Kyren Williams and Blake Corum: A Dynamic Duo
The prospect of Williams and Corum sharing the backfield is an exciting one for Rams fans. Williams, a fifth-round pick out of Notre Dame in 2022, saw limited action during his rookie season but exploded onto the scene in 2023. With Corum’s addition, the Rams are poised to have a versatile and dynamic rushing attack.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As the Rams prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on the tandem of Williams and Corum. The team’s strategic approach to managing Williams’ workload and the potential synergy between the two backs could be a game-changer. Fans can look forward to a thrilling 2024 season, with the Rams’ backfield at the forefront of their offensive strategy.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Rams’ decision to draft Blake Corum is a testament to their forward-thinking approach. By ensuring Kyren Williams remains fresh and effective, the Rams are setting themselves up for success. As Snead’s comments reveal, the team’s commitment to maintaining a high level of play and depth at the running back position will be key in their quest for dominance in the NFL.
