The Los Angeles Rams are set to begin discussions on a contract extension for running back Kyren Williams, with his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, at the annual league meetings, according to The Athletic’s Jordan Rodrigue. Williams, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, has emerged as a key piece of the Rams’ offense, prompting general manager Les Snead to express the team’s desire to secure a long-term partnership with the young running back.
Originally a fifth-round pick in 2022, Williams had a limited role as a rookie, carrying the ball just 35 times. However, he became the team’s primary running back in 2023, leading the NFL with 95.3 rushing yards per game and earning a Pro Bowl selection. While his efficiency declined in 2024—his success rate and yards per carry took a dip—he still managed to rank among the league’s top rushers. Williams finished the season with 1,299 rushing yards (seventh-most in the NFL) and 14 rushing touchdowns (fifth-most). Over the past two seasons combined, he has amassed 2,443 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, placing him among the league’s top three backs in total production.
Given his impressive numbers and the rising market for running backs, Williams is expected to seek a lucrative extension. Based on his statistical rankings, he may push for a salary in line with the top three highest-paid players at his position, which would mean an annual average of over $14 million. However, the Rams may be reluctant to commit to such a high figure at this stage. According to Rodrigue, the team’s valuation of Williams differs from what he and his representatives are likely to demand.
One of the Rams’ concerns is Williams’ durability. Despite his high-level production, he has completed just one full season, missing time in each of his first two years due to ankle injuries. Additionally, while he has proven to be a reliable receiving option—totaling 66 catches over the last two seasons—he does not possess the same pass-catching prowess as some of the highest-paid backs in the league.
Because of these factors, the Rams are not necessarily in a rush to finalize a deal. Snead indicated that Williams could enter the 2025 season without an extension but emphasized that this does not mean he is not part of the team’s long-term plans. The organization may prefer to evaluate his health and performance in the upcoming season before committing to a long-term contract.
For now, Williams’ salary for 2025 has been adjusted due to his Pro Bowl selection. Under the Proven Performance Escalator, his base salary has increased to $5.35 million, and with his signing bonus proration of $78,000, his total cap hit will be $5.42 million. If an extension is agreed upon, the Rams could potentially reduce his cap hit by $3.4 million, providing more financial flexibility for the team.
Ultimately, while negotiations are beginning, the Rams seem willing to take a cautious approach before finalizing a long-term commitment to Williams. His health and performance in 2025 will likely play a major role in determining the terms of any future extension.
