Key Points
Kyren Williams is delivering one of the strongest seasons of his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams.
Head coach Sean McVay has adopted a load management approach to keep the running back fresh.
Williams now shares carries in a 60/40 split with rookie Blake Corum.
The strategy follows lessons learned from Williams’ injury-shortened 2023 season.
The approach has boosted both performance and durability as the Rams eye a playoff push.
A Modern Approach Fuels a Breakout Season
Kyren Williams has emerged as a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Rams’ offense, consistently producing explosive runs and eluding defenders with sharp cuts and acceleration. Behind his standout performances lies a deliberate shift in philosophy from head coach Sean McVay—one focused on preserving the running back’s health through strategic workload management.
The result has been a more efficient, durable Williams who continues to deliver at an elite level late into the season.
Sean McVay’s Calculated Adjustment
McVay addressed the strategy this week, explaining that Williams’ injury history in 2023 played a pivotal role in the decision. Williams spent time on injured reserve last season, prompting the coaching staff to reconsider how heavily he should be used.
“Just because he can handle it doesn’t mean he always should,” McVay said, emphasizing the importance of clear communication with his star running back.
The Rams have settled on a roughly 60/40 carry split between Williams and rookie Blake Corum. According to McVay, the balance allows Williams to stay stronger through the physical demands of a full NFL season while also developing depth at the position.
Production Reflects the Payoff
The numbers support the approach. Despite offensive line challenges last year, Williams still posted his second straight 1,000-yard rushing season and played a major role in the Rams’ NFC West title run.
This season, his efficiency has taken another step forward. Williams is on pace to reach the 1,000-yard mark again, which would be the third such season of his career. His burst, vision, and consistency have noticeably improved with reduced wear and tear.
The shared workload has also fostered healthy competition between Williams and Corum, benefiting the offense as a whole.
Why It Matters for the Rams’ Future
Running back durability has become a central concern across the league, and the Rams’ approach reflects a broader NFL trend toward smarter player usage. By managing Williams’ touches now, Los Angeles is protecting one of its most valuable offensive weapons for potential postseason games.
For Williams, the strategy could extend both his peak years and overall career longevity—an increasingly rare outcome at one of football’s most demanding positions.
What Happens Next?
As the Rams continue their playoff push, Williams is expected to remain the focal point of the ground game within the managed rotation. If the strategy continues to deliver results, it may become a long-term blueprint for how the franchise handles elite running backs moving forward.
