Kyren Williams leads by example as contract talks simmer in the background
As the Los Angeles Rams continue to navigate through offseason practices, one major storyline has left a positive impression on the organization: running back Kyren Williams isn't looking to make headlines, be a distraction, nor hold out. Instead the star running back continues to go to work.
Despite entering a contract year, the former fifth-round pick from 2022 has been consistently present through OTAs and continues to lead drills, work with his teammates, and help set the tone while bringing plenty of energy and effort. Head coach Sean McVay has been well aware through the process.
'He's been here, been leading, been doing exactly what Kyren does,' McVay said Tuesday. 'And so [we've] been pleased. We'll see if there's an opportunity to be able to land that plane.'
That exact "plane," McVay is quoting, is Williams' ongoing contract negotiations, which are led by one of the top agents in the game, Drew Rosenhaus, who also represents and negotiated the one-year deal worth $10 million for Williams' teammate, WR Tutu Atwell, earlier this offseason.
"Matthew Shearin (Senior Manager, Football Administration) has been outstanding in a lot of the communication as it relates to Drew and I feel like it's been really positive, McVay added. "And what I love is that Kyren has been here, been leading, been doing exactly what Kyren does, and so I've been pleased and we'll see if there's an opportunity to be able to land that plane. Good progress, but nothing to report as far as any deal right now.'
For Williams, the journey has been grind. After rushing for just 139 yards and zero touchdowns during his rookie season in 2022, the former All-American at Notre Dame has since totaled 2,443 yards and 26 touchdowns over the last two seasons and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2023 as well as a Second-Team All-Pro selection.
As they always say actions speak louder than words. With expectations climbing more than ever and his value trending up, Williams has continued to show that being a leader isn't about talk but its about being present and doing everything he can to help his team prepare for a new season with high expectations.
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