Rams Running Back Kyren Williams Placed on IR
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Running back Kyren Williams was placed on the injured reserve (IR) Saturday due to an ankle injury he suffered against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 6. The injury took place on a run up the middle where a Cardinals’ defender rolled up on Williams’ ankle when going for a tackle. This resulted in Williams suffering a high ankle sprain. With being placed on the IR, Williams will be out at least the next four games and would be eligible to return in Week 12 in their second matchup against the Cardinals.
The two running backs expected to fill Williams’ role until he returns are Royce Freeman and Darrell Henderson. Both running backs were elevated from the practice squad this week for the Rams Week 7 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Freeman will likely be the starter this week against the Steelers but depending on how the Steelers’ defense plays against the run it could affect who gets more carries.
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Freeman who has no touches so far this season has played well in his limited action during his career. Over his career, Freeman has 394 carries for 1,473 yards and 8 touchdowns. He’s also been a factor in the passing game having 85 receptions for 519 yards and a touchdown. Having the versatility to be both a runner and a receiver puts Freeman in a prime position to get a bulk of touches with Williams now out for four games.
Now switching to running back Darrell Henderson Jr who like Royce Freeman has no touches so far in 2023. Henderson is also expected to get some touches over these next four games and with being on the Rams since 2019 he is very well-versed in their playbook. Henderson has also been productive in his first four seasons in the league. In 50 games played Henderson has 396 carries for 1,742 yards and 13 touchdowns. Like Freeman, Henderson is also capable of being a factor in the passing games as he has 66 receptions for 474 yards and 4 touchdowns.
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With both players being very similar in regards to their production in the league, it’s likely the Rams ride whoever the hot hand is during their next four games. With both Freeman and Henderson having the ability to run and catch, it allows Head Coach Sean McVay and that’s Rams offense to use the backs interchangeably. This will prevent opposing defenses from being able to tell if it’s a run or pass just from who’s in the game at running back because both players can be used in either role.
The loss of Kyren Williams will not be an easy role to fill as he’s had a great start to his season. Through six games Williams has 97 carries for 456 yards and six touchdowns. Nonetheless, with the creative play calling from Sean McVay and solid production in the passing game between Stafford and his receivers, the Rams will likely continue to have an effective rushing attack keeping a well-balanced offense and putting the Rams in a prime position to win.
