In a surprising development, NFL.com has named Kyren Williams among the top 100 players heading into the 2025 season, placing him at number 85. This contrasts sharply with recent reports from ESPN, which revealed that several NFL executives do not consider Williams a top-15 running back. This discrepancy highlights the challenge in evaluating Williams’s true value on the field.

Evaluating the Inconsistent Performance of Williams on the Field

Kyren Williams is a player whose performances swing between remarkable and frustrating. While he can be outstanding at times, there are moments when his play slips into mediocrity or even hurts the Los Angeles Rams’ chances during critical game situations. His occasional costly mistakes and limited record of big plays have raised questions about whether the Rams could improve their backfield with a more reliable option.

Williams’s Role and Potential Growth with the Rams

Despite these concerns, Williams has been an important figure for the Rams over the past two seasons. Head coach Sean McVay values him for his explosiveness and versatility, recognizing the high return the team got when they selected him in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. If Williams can amplify his game in the upcoming season, he might quickly climb among the top running backs in the league.

Peer Recognition and the Value of Player Respect

While opinions among analysts remain divided, Williams’s reputation among his fellow players offers a meaningful perspective. His ranking by NFL.com reflects this peer acknowledgment, as many who compete against him on the field regard him highly. This recognition serves as a significant compliment, underscoring his respect within the professional community.

Uncertainty Surrounding Williams’s Future with the Rams

Looking ahead, Williams’s continued tenure with the Rams is uncertain. Given both his inconsistent moments and undeniable talent, his future may depend on how he performs in the forthcoming season. Nonetheless, entering the new campaign as one of the league’s top 100 players puts him in a strong position to reinforce his status or potentially attract broader interest.

Memorable Quotes Reflecting Williams’s Mixed Perception

Williams’s situation is aptly captured through the words of artists quoted in commentary:

You don’t know what you got til it’s gone

—Joni Mitchell, and

I know I got it, I don’t know what ya’ll on

—Kanye West. These lines express the tension between undervaluation and self-assurance that surrounds Williams as he continues to carve out his place in the NFL.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. What did Sean McVay say about Kyren Williams?

A. What I appreciate is that Kyren has stayed here, taking charge and continuing to do what he usually does. I’m happy about this, and we’ll see if we can successfully finish the task. There has been good progress, but there is no deal to announce at the moment.