Kyren Williams is in the final year of his four-year, $3.9 million rookie contract, set to become a free agent in 2026 if no extension is reached. Talks between the Rams and Williams’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, began earlier this offseason, but progress has been slow. Reports from April 2025 indicated that the two sides were “pretty far apart” in negotiations. However, recent updates suggest a more optimistic outlook.
On May 19, 2025, Williams expressed confidence in the ongoing talks, stating he is “feeling good” about the chances of securing an extension with the Rams. This sentiment was echoed by head coach Sean McVay, who emphasized Williams’ importance to the team and confirmed that discussions with Rosenhaus were ongoing. McVay noted that the Rams had sent a proposal to Williams’ agent and were scheduled to meet in early April, though no deal was finalized at that time. Snead has also been vocal about the team’s desire to keep Williams, stating at the NFL league meetings, “We would definitely like to engineer a long-term partnership with Kyren”.
Despite the positive rhetoric, challenges remain. The Rams’ draft selection of Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft has raised questions about their commitment to Williams. Some analysts speculate that Hunter’s addition could give the Rams leverage in negotiations or even signal a potential shift in their backfield strategy if Williams’ asking price is deemed too high. However, Williams has embraced the competition, expressing excitement about working with Hunter and mentoring younger backs like Blake Corum.
What the #Rams have been lacking. A big back that can take it to the house. pic.twitter.com/UaMAGFL0Y9
— The Rams Forum: LA’s Playbook for Passionate Fans (@RamsFansForum) May 18, 2025
Kyren Williams’ longest run of the 2024 season was a 31-yard burst, which was also his longest career run. While he had several long runs during the season, including a 27-yard gain against the Eagles and a 13-yard run that turned a near-short gain into a first down, the 31-yarder stands out as his longest overall.
Financial Considerations and Market Value
The financial aspect of Williams’ potential extension is a critical sticking point. The running back market has been volatile in recent years, with teams hesitant to invest heavily in the position due to its perceived replaceability and injury risks. The Rams’ own history with running back contracts—most notably cutting Todd Gurley in 2019 after a $60 million extension—adds caution to their approach.
Contract website Spotrac projects Williams’ market value at approximately $31 million over three years, or roughly $10.3 million per year. This figure aligns with recent contracts for running backs like Josh Jacobs, who signed a four-year, $48 million deal with the Green Bay Packers in 2024, averaging $12 million annually. Analysts suggest the Rams may aim to secure Williams in the $9 million to $11 million per year range, while Williams’ camp could push for a deal closer to $12 million to $14 million annually, reflecting his youth (he’ll be 25 in 2025) and production. As I wrote in this article, the Rams would be wise to take a cautious approach in contract negotiations. The contracts of Todd Gurley and Cooper Kupp have shown that being too generous can have serious salary cap implications.
The Rams’ salary cap situation provides some flexibility. With the team ranking 10th in projected 2026 cap space, they have the financial room to extend Williams without significant roster upheaval. However, the addition of Hunter and the presence of other capable backs such as Blake Corum, Ronnie Rivers, Cody Schrader, and UDFA Jordan Waters could embolden the Rams to take a harder line in negotiations, knowing they have depth at the position.
Social Media Sentiment and Fan Perspectives
Social media, particularly posts on X, offers a window into fan sentiment regarding Williams’ contract situation. Many Rams fans are vocal about their desire to see Williams extended, citing his on-field dominance and leadership. Posts from accounts like @latimessports and @ProFootballTalk on May 19 and 20, 2025, highlighted Williams’ optimism about a potential deal, sparking positive reactions from fans who view him as a cornerstone of the team’s future.
Curious how an early extension would impact the salary cap. Remembering less than a month ago, it was reported that Kyren’s agent (Drew Rosenhaus) and the Rams were pretty far apart on a number.
— Rams Bros. (@RamsBrothers) May 20, 2025
Prefer Kyren playing final year of his rookie deal before extending him. Personally https://t.co/hSWGPYNjSF
However, some fans and analysts express skepticism about the Rams’ strategy. A post from @RamsBrothers on May 19 suggested that Williams should play out the final year of his rookie deal before receiving an extension, citing the potential salary cap implications of an early deal. Others, like @EastCoastRams, speculated that the addition of Hunter could marginalize Blake Corum and signal a rotation-heavy backfield, potentially reducing Williams’ workload to preserve his health. These perspectives reflect the broader debate about the value of running backs in today’s NFL and the Rams’ long-term plans.
Implications for the Rams’ 2025 Season and Beyond
The outcome of Williams’ contract talks will have significant implications for the Rams’ 2025 season and their roster construction moving forward. A long-term extension would lock in a proven, young star at a critical position, providing stability to an offense that has relied heavily on Williams’ production. His presence boosts the Rams’ rushing attack, which averaged 103.8 yards per game in 2024, and enhances their play-action passing game led by quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Conversely, failing to reach a deal could create uncertainty. If Williams enters the 2025 season without an extension, he could hit free agency in 2026, where he is projected to be one of the top running backs available. Losing him would be a blow to the Rams’ offense, especially given their history of struggling to run the ball effectively without a dominant back. The presence of Hunter and Corum mitigates some of this risk, but neither has yet proven they can replicate Williams’ impact as a bellcow back.
The Rams’ decision to draft Hunter also suggests a strategic hedge. Hunter, who boasts a 12.4% explosive run rate and a 4.40-second 40-yard dash, brings a different skill set to the backfield, with a more downhill running style compared to Williams’ elusive, versatile approach. If Hunter develops quickly, the Rams could opt for a committee approach in 2026, reducing their reliance on Williams and potentially allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere, such as to their defensive secondary or offensive line.
Williams’ Mindset and Goals for 2025
Amid the contract uncertainty, Williams remains focused on elevating his game. In an interview with RG.org, he expressed confidence that he has not yet reached his peak, stating, “I’ve gotten to where I wanted to be, but I’m determined to make this my best season”. Williams aims to improve his explosiveness, an area where he has lagged relative to his peers, with only 8.5% of his 2024 carries resulting in runs of 10-plus yards. A standout 2025 season could strengthen his leverage in negotiations, but it also carries the risk of injury or diminished returns in a crowded backfield.
Williams’ leadership will also be crucial as he mentors younger backs like Hunter and Corum. His willingness to embrace competition and guide his teammates reflects the culture that McVay and Snead have built in Los Angeles, where “chasing special” is a guiding philosophy. This mindset could help the Rams navigate the challenges of a deep running back room while maintaining their focus on a Super Bowl run in 2025.
Final Thoughts
The contract negotiations between Kyren Williams and the Los Angeles Rams represent a defining moment for both the player and the franchise. Williams’ production, leadership, and community impact make him a priority for the Rams, but the team’s cautious approach to running back contracts and the addition of Jarquez Hunter complicate the talks. Recent reports and Williams’ own optimism suggest a deal is within reach, but the financial terms and the Rams’ long-term vision will ultimately determine the outcome.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Williams, both for his on-field performance and the resolution of his contract saga. Whether he remains a Ram for years to come or tests the free-agent market in 2026, his impact on the franchise is undeniable. For now, fans can take heart in Williams’ confidence and the Rams’ stated commitment to keeping their star running back in Los Angeles.
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