The Rams’ signing of undrafted free agent (UDFA) running back Jordan Waters from North Carolina State introduces a fresh dynamic to their backfield. Announced on April 26, 2025, this signing follows the 2025 NFL Draft, where the Rams selected Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter in the fourth round at pick 117. Waters, with his unique physical profile and athletic prowess, stands out as a departure from the Rams’ recent trend of smaller, agile running backs, signaling a potential shift in their offensive approach.
A Break from the Mold
Since the departure of Todd Gurley, the Rams have favored running backs on the smaller side, typically standing around 5’8” to 5’9” and weighing between 200 and 210 pounds. This archetype, exemplified by current starter Kyren Williams (5’9”, 194 lbs) and rookie Jarquez Hunter (5’9”, 204 lbs), aligns with the NFL’s modern trend of prioritizing pass-catching ability and agility in the backfield. These smaller backs excel in Sean McVay’s offense, emphasizing quick cuts, receiving skills, and versatility in the passing game. However, the signing of Jordan Waters, who stands at 6’0” and weighs 220 pounds, introduces a larger, more physical presence to the Rams’ running back room.
Waters’ size and athleticism offer a contrast to the existing roster. His Pro Day performance at North Carolina State showcased his explosiveness: a 1.48-second 10-yard split, a 4.50-second 40-yard dash, a 33.5-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot broad jump, and 17 bench press reps. These metrics highlight his blend of speed, power, and lower-body strength, making him a potential bruiser who can wear down defenses. Waters boasts size and athleticism that could diversify the Rams’ ground attack, providing a complementary style to the shifty, elusive runners on the roster.
From Duke to NC State: Waters’ Collegiate Journey
Jordan Waters’ path to the NFL is marked by resilience and adaptability. Initially recruited as a three-star quarterback/wide receiver prospect, Waters began his college career at Duke University, where he played five seasons as a running back for the Blue Devils. Over his final two years at Duke (2022–2023), he amassed 1,369 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to handle a significant workload and find the end zone.
Seeking a new opportunity for his sixth year of eligibility, Waters transferred to North Carolina State as a graduate student in 2024. At NC State, he continued to demonstrate his productivity, contributing to a 2025 running back class described as “STACKED” by NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF). His performance at Duke and NC State caught the attention of NFL scouts, despite going undrafted. The Rams, known for finding value in late-round and undrafted talent, saw an opportunity to add a player with Waters’ unique skill set to their roster.
Interestingly, Waters’ signing bolsters the Rams’ connection to North Carolina State, as they now have four Wolfpack alumni on their 2025 roster: Waters, safety Tanner Ingle, defensive tackle Larrell Murchison, and center Dylan McMahon. This pipeline reflects the Rams’ scouting focus on NC State’s program, which has produced NFL-caliber talent in recent years.
Fitting into the Rams’ Backfield
The Rams’ running back room is already crowded with talent, but Waters’ addition addresses specific needs. Kyren Williams, the team’s All-Pro workhorse, rushed for 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2024, but his 4.65-second 40-yard dash and limited explosiveness (only two runs of 20+ yards in 2024) highlight a lack of home-run speed in the backfield. Blake Corum, a 2024 third-round pick, was expected to provide a higher ceiling but struggled in limited opportunities, notably breaking his forearm after just two carries in a Week 18 start against Seattle. Jarquez Hunter, the 2025 draft pick, fits the Rams’ traditional mold but doesn’t significantly alter the unit’s overall dynamic.
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Waters, by contrast, brings a power-running style that could complement Williams and Hunter. His 6’0”, 220-pound frame allows him to absorb contact and push the pile, while his 4.50-second 40-yard dash suggests enough speed to break away in open space. The 2025 running back class was considered one of the strongest in recent memory, with players like Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton projected as first-round picks. While Waters wasn’t among the top-tier prospects, his production and physical tools make him a valuable UDFA signing with the potential to carve out a role.
Sean McVay’s offense thrives on versatility, and Waters’ size could enable him to line up in multiple roles, such as a short-yardage back, goal-line runner, or even an H-back in certain formations. His ability to contribute in pass protection—a key trait valued by McVay—remains to be tested at the NFL level, but his collegiate tape suggests he has the physicality to handle blitz pickups. Additionally, Waters’ experience as a former quarterback/wide receiver recruit hints at untapped potential in the passing game, though his receiving stats in college were modest.
Strategic Implications for 2025
The signing of Waters reflects the Rams’ broader strategy of balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term roster building. With Matthew Stafford locked in through 2026 on a revised two-year, $80 million contract, the Rams are in “win-now” mode, as evidenced by their acquisition of Davante Adams and retention of core players like Alaric Jackson. However, the running back position remains a question mark beyond 2025. Williams is a free agent after the season, and the Rams’ negotiations with his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, suggest a desire to extend him long-term. Corum’s underwhelming rookie year and injury raise doubts about his role, while rookie Hunter is still an unproven commodity.
Waters’ low-cost UDFA contract (likely at the league minimum) gives the Rams flexibility to evaluate him during Organized Team Activities (OTAs), training camp, and the preseason without significant financial commitment. If he impresses, he could push Corum for a roster spot or even challenge Hunter for snaps as a rookie. His size and physicality could also make him a candidate for special teams.
Moreover, Waters’ addition aligns with the Rams’ draft philosophy of finding “diamonds in the rough.” General Manager Les Snead has a track record of uncovering talent on day three and in the UDFA market, and Waters fits this mold. The Rams’ 2025 draft class, which includes Ole Miss linebacker Chris Paul Jr. and tight end Terrance Ferguson, received glowing reviews for addressing both immediate and future needs. Waters’ signing complements this approach by adding depth and competition to a critical position group.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Waters’ physical tools are enticing, his path to the Rams’ 53-man roster is not guaranteed. His five years at Duke and one at NC State (six total college seasons) mean he’s older than most rookies, potentially limiting his developmental upside. At 24 or 25 years old, he’ll need to make an immediate impact to justify a roster spot. Additionally, his 428 career carries are relatively low for a six-year college player, suggesting he wasn’t a bell-cow back, which could raise questions about his durability in a featured role.
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The Rams’ crowded backfield presents another hurdle. Williams is entrenched as the starter, and Hunter’s draft pedigree gives him an edge for playing time. Corum, despite his lack of touches, remains a recent investment, and the Rams may give him another chance to prove himself. Waters will need to outperform at least one of these players in camp or demonstrate value on special teams to secure a spot. His ability to adapt to McVay’s complex offensive scheme—known for its heavy use of motion, play-action, and pre-snap disguises—will also be critical.
On the opportunity side, the Rams’ running back room has clear deficiencies that Waters can address. The team ranked last in the NFL in 2024 with only two runs of 20+ yards from running backs, a stat highlighted by ESPN’s Field Yates. Waters’ burst and power could provide the “second gear” the Rams lack, especially in situations requiring tough yards between the tackles. If he can translate his Pro Day athleticism to the field, he has a chance to carve out a niche role, similar to how Puka Nacua emerged as a fifth-round steal in 2023.
Looking Ahead
As the Rams prepare for the 2025 season, Jordan Waters represents a low-risk, high-reward addition to their roster. His signing underscores the team’s commitment to diversifying their offensive attack while maintaining their reputation for finding undervalued talent. Whether he becomes a key contributor or a training camp standout remains to be seen, but his physical profile and collegiate production make him an intriguing prospect to watch.
The Rams’ OTAs, set to begin in May 2025, will provide the first glimpse of Waters in a professional setting. His performance in these sessions, along with training camp and preseason games, will determine whether he can earn a place alongside Williams, Hunter, and Corum. If Waters can leverage his size, athleticism, and work ethic, he could follow in the footsteps of other Rams UDFAs who defied the odds to make an impact.
For now, Waters stands as a symbol of the Rams’ forward-thinking approach—a team unafraid to take chances on unique talents in pursuit of a Super Bowl. As the 2025 season approaches, fans will be eager to see whether this 6’0”, 220-pound running back can bring a new dimension to Los Angeles’ high-powered offense.
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