As the Los Angeles Rams prepared for training camp, all attention centered on Kyren Williams and his ongoing contract situation. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Williams faced a critical decision about his future but opted not to hold out before camp, signaling his commitment to the team and the upcoming season.
Instead of sitting out, Williams stayed fully engaged, participating in the initial four-day practice sessions, showing readiness and dedication ahead of the regular season.
Sean McVay Praises Williams’ Professional Approach Amid Contract Talks
Head coach Sean McVay expressed strong approval of Williams’ conduct, highlighting the running back’s maturity and professionalism during the negotiations. With talks ongoing between Williams’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, and the Rams, McVay described their progress as positive and collaborative.
“It’s huge. He’s handled himself like the guy that you guys know,”
McVay said.
“I mean, that’s just who he is. And we’re going to sit down with [Agent] Drew [Rosenhaus] tomorrow. Looking forward to that. You say these things all the time and the ultimate goal in mind is for him to get under contract and finding that sweet spot that fits for that puzzle that we’re trying to piece together as a team, and what represents his value for the production and what he means to us, those can sometimes be challenging things, but I think there’s been a good, healthy collaborative approach.”
—Sean McVay, Head Coach
McVay also emphasized the player’s importance beyond the field, commending Williams’ character, resilience, and team spirit.
“We have gotten closer, haven’t gotten the deal over the finish line, obviously, and he has done everything that he can control that makes you want to say, ‘Let’s try in good faith to figure this out for this guy because he’s representing all the things that are right about the Rams.’ And the way he plays, his spirit, his mindset, what he is as a teammate, how he responds to adversity, the physical and mental toughness, so it means a lot. I love this guy and love what he stands for and what he is about, most importantly, as a man.”
—Sean McVay, Head Coach
Why Avoiding a Holdout Was the Wise Move for Williams’ Career
Williams’ choice to avoid a holdout reflects a strategic understanding of the running back market in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL, where the position offers limited leverage during contract talks. Historical precedents show that holdouts rarely benefit running backs in securing better deals, unlike other positions.
Notably, Ezekiel Elliott’s market impact heavily influenced this dynamic, while players such as Le’Veon Bell and Melvin Gordon have also demonstrated that holding out seldom produces the desired effect. Most of the league’s highest-paid running backs earned their contracts through free agency, often with teams different from those that drafted them.
Among top earners, only Jonathan Taylor and Alvin Kamara successfully negotiated lucrative extensions early due to exceptional leverage, a position Williams currently lacks.
Williams Secures Trust and Position Amid Ongoing Negotiations
By reporting to camp and performing well, Williams elevated his standing with the Rams and maintained strong relationships within the locker room. His decision allowed both Rosenhaus and the Rams’ management to continue contract discussions privately, without the distraction or pressure of a holdout.
Williams remains central to the Rams’ plans for the season, preserving the respect of teammates and coaches while positioning himself for a favorable outcome whether through an extension or eventual free agency.
His maturity and tactical choices demonstrate a level of professionalism and foresight uncommon for a young player still early in his career, underscoring his potential for long-term success in the NFL.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kyren Williams elite?
A. Kyren Williams, a running back for the Los Angeles Rams, has been very productive in the NFL recently. However, he still hasn’t gained recognition as one of the league’s top players.