The Los Angeles Rams secured running back Kyren Williams with a three-year contract extension worth $33 million on Tuesday, ensuring the young star remains a key contributor in Los Angeles. Originally scheduled to earn $5.3 million in 2025 under the final year of his rookie contract, the 24-year-old will now receive a significant pay raise that reflects his growing importance to the team.
With $19.5 million in available cap space, the Rams have made a strategic move to lock in one of their top offensive players as they prepare for future playoff runs.
Rams Management’s Commitment to Building Around Williams
Rams general manager Les Snead expressed the organization’s intention to maintain a lasting relationship with Kyren Williams during the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL annual meeting in March, stating that
“we would definitely like to engineer a long-term partnership with Kyren.”
—Les Snead, Rams General Manager
Williams himself indicated in May that he was taking a measured approach to contract negotiations but expected a deal to come together. Both parties achieved their goal with the extension secured on Tuesday, confirming their mutual confidence in a successful partnership.
Further strengthening the running back position, the Rams also drafted Auburn prospect Jarquez Hunter in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL draft to add depth behind Williams.
Williams’ Rise as the Rams’ Leading Running Back
Selected in the fifth round of the 2022 draft, Williams quickly emerged as the Rams’ leading running back. After a quiet rookie season, he took over as the lead back in 2023, rushing for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns on 228 carries, while contributing 206 receiving yards and three additional touchdowns in 32 receptions, despite only playing 12 games.
In 2024, Williams built on his success, setting career highs with 1,299 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on 316 carries across 16 games. He also added 182 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 34 receptions. His consistency and impact on the ground balanced out a Rams offense that has primarily relied on veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford’s passing attack.
Williams’ Role in the Rams’ Recent Success and Future Outlook
Williams’ strong performances helped the Rams achieve a 10-7 record and capture the NFC West title for the first time since 2021. The team advanced to the playoffs, defeating the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card Round before falling to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Divisional Round, the eventual Super Bowl champions.
By extending Williams, Los Angeles has secured a foundational player vital for sustaining competitiveness in the coming years. This deal positions the Rams well as they aim for another deep playoff run in 2025 and beyond, with Williams forming a centerpiece of their offensive strategy moving forward.