The success of Sean McVay's offense has always been predicated on the abilities of his running back, and during his early years, the backfield was dominated by All-Pro Todd Gurley. A dual-threat player, Gurley was one of the NFL's best running backs, while also being McVay's extra receiver in his 11 personnel offense.
Recently, Kyren Williams has emerged in that role, rounding out his game to fit the needs of the current operation. Williams' prowess as a pass catcher has opened up opportunities for others, as the defense has to often defend against five premier targets.
Coming into this season, Williams wasn't heavily involved as a receiver, seeing a career-high 50 targets in 2025. Through five games, he already has 33 targets this season.
On Tuesday,
McVay spoke on how Williams' work has benefited the team, stating that positive things occur when his running back has the ball.
“It's both," McVay said of whether the Rams are purposely targeting Williams or if he's mostly been a check-down option. "A couple of the catches that he had in the two-minute, he's a late checkdown and Matthew's getting through his progressions. Then sometimes, he is the primary for us. He's done a great job in that phase of continuing to improve and be a weapon for us. I think it's a little bit of both. When the ball is in his hands, good things happen and we want to be able to do that. But I think when we've been at our best offensively, the ball gets spread around and using all five eligibles. In a lot of instances, if you have to honor the back, it does change the way that a lot of these coverages can unfold, if you will.”
Williams is on pace to record his fourth straight 1,000-yard rushing season, while he currently sits tied with Davante Adams for second on the team in receptions (27). He's scored five total touchdowns this season, as well.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Sean McVay breaks down Kyren Williams' increased role as a receiver
