Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams reported to training camp Tuesday while seeking a new contract and the status of his quarterback was a surprise.
Williams said he plans to participate in practice, but head coach Sean McVay said Matthew Stafford was not ready to practice because of a sore back. McVay said the issue is not expected to be a problem into the regular season in September.
Williams told reporters that he anticipates completing a contract extension, however there is no timeline
to do so. He also said he plans to be ready to play in the season opener even if he has not signed a new deal.
"For me there was no decision," Williams said of whether or not to show up at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
"I play football. That's what I do, that's what I love. At the end of the day, I do this not for the money, not for the fame or the popularity but to take care of my family. ... For me, it's a lot bigger than a contract negotiation. For me, it's putting my feet on the ground and continue to get better."
Williams, 25, is entering the final season of his rookie deal and has a base salary of $5.35 million, per Spotrac.
He made a huge impact in 2024, recording career highs in carries (316), rushing yards (1,299) and rushing touchdowns (14). He has rushed for 2,582 yards and totaled 31 touchdowns (26 rushing, five receiving) in 38 games since being selected by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Last season, Williams became the third Rams player age 24 or younger to have at least 27 scrimmage touchdowns in a two-year span. He joined Todd Gurley (40, 2017-18) and Hall of Fame member Eric Dickerson (34, 1983-84) on the short list.
--Field Level Media
